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Positive Campaigns
The Interfaith Alliance of Rochester (TIAR) and the League of Women Voters/Rochester Metro Area (LWV/RMA) are encouraging all candidates for public office to run positive, issues-oriented campaigns. Some candidates feel that negative ads are effective. We believe that positive campaigns that address important issues are winning campaigns and we urge you to publicly commit yourself to running a positive, issues-oriented campaign.
Candidates who agree to abide by The Pledge should sign and return that form to the League by fax (585-262-4493) or by US mail at the address above as soon as possible and postmarked no later than Friday, September 3rd.
Pledges may also be signed at the Signing and Recognition Ceremony on September 8th at noon in the atrium of the Monroe County Office Building.
Who can sign The Pledge?
All candidates recognized by the Monroe County Board of Elections are eligible, except candidates for judicial office.
Who decides if The Pledge has been broken by a candidate?
First, only a candidate may file a complaint (in her or his own race). The Fair Election Practices Committee (FEPC) hears complaints. Qquestions about the FEPC complaint forms and procedures should be directed to the FEPC chair, Sarah Liebschutz (585) 385-1854.
What about candidates who do not sign?
You can still file a complaint. Failure to sign the pledge provides no protection for unfair practices. By signing, you are publicly proclaiming your support for a fair, issues-oriented race. You can tout that fact in all your promotions and tell all your potential supporters. We'll even help (see below).
When will the complaint and hearing process begin?
The FEPC will accept properly filed complaints beginning on August 30th and continue to hear complaints until November 1st, the day before Election Day. Complaints will not be accepted after noon on September 13th for the primaries and noon on November 1st for the general election.
Will there be a press conference to promote The Fair Campaign Pledge?
Yes. TIAR and LWV/RMA will hold a joint press conference and signing ceremony on the Wednesday after Labor Day, September 8th, at noon in the atrium of the Monroe County Office Building recognizing those who have signed The Pledge. All local media will be invited to witness the ceremony and interview candidates in attendance who have signed The Pledge.
For more information about The Fair Campaign Pledge and the Fair Election Practices Committee, please call Sarah Liebschutz (585) 385-1854.
Click here for candidate information and forms for the Fair Election Campaign Pledge
Click here for the hearing procedures of the Fair Election Practices Committee
45 Exchange Blvd. Suite 508 · Rochester, NY · 14614-2078
V/TDD: 585.262.3730 · FAX: 585.262.4493