CLC Policy Summary

Policy Document

Restore limited government in pursuance of the principles in the Declaration of Independence and Constitution, according to their original meaning
Inform ourselves and others, motivate, and activate more people
Network with others of like minds to maximize effectiveness

Bottom Up
Ethical and moral foundation
Employing critical and analytical thinking, using primary sources, healthy skepticism
A belief in Constitutional originalism and unique nature of the American system
Acknowledge of source of rights our rights is our Creator – God
Respect for free will, account for human nature and history
Respect for rule of law
Nation of laws, not men’s opinions; all must abide by the law; use proper process to make changes

Sound development of issues and public policy positions

Effective strategies

Operating style and policies:

Model appropriate practices and actions for others
Encourage critical and analytical thinking, healthy skepticism, and verification
Model proper research practices; investigate thoroughly, leave door open if all facts not confirmed, acknowledge and correct mistakes promptly
Present information with primary sources cited / linked, encourage people to verify themselves

Echo Constitutional originalism in structure, practices, strategies

Nationalism (centralization) vs Federalism

A nationalism approach…

National groups, especially those which are D.C. based tend to be centralized, top-down, and have national focus
National groups tend to serve the interests of establishment power

A network approach…

Network of state and local groups could exist to provide support structure, communications mechanisms, pooling limited resources, solution sharing, and formulation of action plans.
Network of groups should have leadership comprised of state and local group leaders to maintain focus on bottom-up solutions.

Alliances, Affiliations, and Associations

George Washington’s Farewell Address provides insightful advice on parties and the avoidance of entanglements.

Maintain independence and autonomy

Alliances, affiliations, and associations should…

Reflect foundational ethics and morals
Assist in meeting a group’s mission
Enhance and increase profile while reflecting principles, modeling proper conduct
Focus on local, state solutions and leadership

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Adequate Disclosure:

Mission and Principles

Should reflect focus and illustrate moral, ethical foundations

Group / organization structure, leadership should be documented

Does the board have a board, council, or advisors? Are members elected or appointed?
Core decision-makers should be willing to disclose some verifiable information
Is the group / organization affiliated in some way with other groups?

Information collection, data handling and sharing or selling:

NO use of deceptive practices; capturing ip addresses, “petition” list-building, adding people to distribution lists without their explicit consent
Explanation should be given regarding why certain information is requested
Information should not be shared or sold without explicit consent of individuals
Protection of information should be pledged as a priority, limited access noted
If affiliated in a network of groups, contact information and data should be pushed out to the local level, warehoused centrally only for back-up purposes, and rare communications to entire list for agreed upon purposes that serve interests of overall network. These policies should be clearly stated at the time of sign up.
Unsubscribe option must be included in email correspondence, it is the right thing to do and it is required by law

Fundraising purposes, handling: