This article is part of our Principled Voter series.
A principled voter asks: Is this candidate prepared?
“To each, there comes in their lifetime a special moment when they are figuratively tapped on the shoulder and offered the chance to do a very special thing, unique to them and fitted to their talents. What a tragedy if that moment finds them unprepared or unqualified for that which could have been their finest hour.” — Winston Churchill
What does it mean to be prepared? A principled voter knows that elections are not a game — and that good leaders must offer us more than a list of grievances. They vote to “hire” candidates who are prepared and serious about public service.
They prioritize candidates who clearly understand the job before them and are willing to put in the hours required to do the work of managing complex government systems.
What is at stake? For our government to serve the people, we need leaders who have a good work ethic and are able to persevere patiently and peacefully on our behalf — in spite of setbacks.
In times of peace and prosperity, preparation is necessary for government reform and social progress. In times of crisis, prepared leaders are less likely to make critical errors and more able to help us to safe harbor.
Why does it matter?
Those who are incompetent often gain power and authority by tearing down essential systems and institutions without offering better solutions.
Lack of preparation can lead officials to overpromise and underdeliver, further increasing cynicism among citizens.
When our leaders are ill-informed and incompetent, they signal weakness and invite attacks on our society by bad actors from home and abroad.
How can I tell if this candidate is prepared?
They have a strong work ethic. Their colleagues (including political opponents) speak well of them and can offer specific examples of their good habits.
They are knowledgeable about a wide range of topics and demonstrate an understanding of how government actually works.
They are surrounded by people who are reputable, respected, and informed.
No candidate is perfect, but some may be better prepared than others.
Character is best measured in patterns.
Ideology aside, would you be comfortable if this candidate were your boss? Would you hire them to work for you?
Are they primarily known for what they say, or for what they do? Are they always performing for a partisan audience, or do they have a track record of legitimate accomplishment?
Do they regularly minimize the value of education or mock people who have worked hard to gain expertise and wisdom?
Principled voters are “golden rule” voters. They consider whether their vote will harm others, and they use their vote to create a better shared future.
Voting for candidates who are prepared helps build the beloved community by ensuring that we are ready to welcome new opportunities and face unforeseen challenges.
Character matters. Hope votes.
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