Framing the Question

 We must regulate the regulators who control our system of government –  elected officials at all levels of American government. Demanding a new social contract, a Microtution, from every person seeking public office gives `We the People’ the ability to do just that. Americans have the right to demand that the public good is more important than re-election or special interests.

It is important to understand the American people are not interested in abstract theories. Most Americans understand contracts and know that when they sign a mortgage it is a promise to pay and, when they do not meet their promise, there is a sanction. Failure to fulfill a promise to pay your mortgage means you lose the house. This simple contract principle can be applied to the powers associated with every elective office in the nation, from local city officials to the President of the United States.

 Our federal and state constitutions are contracts that provide macro control over the way we govern ourselves. The premise of this paper is that it is our right to exercise micro control over select behaviors of our elected officials. This new social political contract is a Microtution. Incorporating the function of a Microtution into our political system represents the next milestone in democratic self-government.  

A candidate for public office implementing a Microtution as part of their political commitment will be giving his or her constituents access to a dormant constitutional right and a more accountable government. An aspiring politician embracing a Microtution as part of his or her political platform will demonstrate leadership, courage and a conviction to their principals. 

This paper provides those considering entering a campaign for any elected office in the United States, insight on how to frame Microtution issues and guidance not otherwise available. Employed wisely, use of a Microtution could be the edge needed to win an election. Additionally, the 511,039 elected officials in the United States, over time, may need to understand and apply the concepts presented in this paper to remain in office. 

Those discouraged by a procession of political leaders who have betrayed the trust of their constituents will find, in this paper, a way to distinguish between those politicians who are willing to give voters the constitutional rights they deserve and those who are not.  

The history of American politics and governance constitutes a constantly evolving set of customs, traditions and processes. The introduction of Microtutions into that process is the next step in America’s evolution toward a more effective and accountable representative democratic system. When Americans choose to support for public office candidates utilizing a Microtution, and deliver those candidates a few well-earned victories, fewer and fewer candidates will choose to campaign without presenting their respective constituencies with a well thought-out Microtution guaranteeing a handful of self-selected “action items” they intend to deliver if elected. Failure to complete all Microtution “action items” while serving in elected office the candidate, nee elected official, has pre-agreed to not seek re-election to the current office held or any other elective office in the next election cycle.

When Americans become aware of the opportunity for positive political change, together as a nation we can drive the custom of political accountability into our system of government.  As a nation are we ready for such change?  Absolutely.