Honesty and Integrity in Politics (Get HIP)

For the past 'n' years (you pick the number from 1 to 200) there has been a major problem in the political arena that can be summarized as the lack of honesty and integrity in our political leaders. This extends from the local level to the county and state politicians and is very evident (because of the increased level of publicity) at the national level.

What do I mean by this?

Our politicians give us 1/2 truths or outright falsehoods (aka lies) and for those who are honest they are deluged by those who are not accusing them of being dishonest. These dishonest politicians are in both parties and seek to improve their own stature and image by using complete falsehoods or 1/2 truths to tear down those who are honest and demonstrate integrity.

We require that those who attend our military academies and who are officiers in our armed forces to live by an honor code. How can we expect less of our appointed and elected officials?

What can be done about this? Get every politician, including candidates, office holders, and appointees to sign on to the HIP Pledge:

The Honesty and Integrity in Politics Pledge

1. I will always be honest and demonstrate the highest levels of integrity in all my public and private dealings because I realize that I am a role model and example to others.
   
2. I will never mislead the electorate about any issue that comes before me.
3. I will never make personal attacks against other appointed or elected officials.
   
4. I will only engage other appointed and elected officials about issues and then only using 100% of the truth.
5. Just as we require the students at our military academies to live by an Honor Code, I pledge to live my life by the same standards.