Principles
These principles and concepts color our judgment here at Thomas so that you know when determining the accuracy of our reporting. Take issue with us, if you will, and speak out if you support. We believe these principles and concepts are consistent with those of Thomas Jefferson and most of our founding fathers. Still, we will always open our eyes and ears to adapting where we are wrong, fall short, or could do better for the greater good. And, just for good measure, here are copies of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights with the Amendments to re-familiarize yourself with again. Our hat is off to you for your excellent citizenship!
the thomas take on these principles
Constitutional
We deeply believe in the United States Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Declaration of Independence
The three branches of government - executive, legislative, and judicial - are co-equal and to be mutually respected
Congress does have oversight over the executive branch, and executive privilege does not permit lawbreaking for any reason
The executive branch does have privilege where laws are not being broken, but national security is being protected
Congressional subpoenas are enforceable, and stricter constitutional interpretation is desirable
All Americans are equal, to be free from discrimination and ridicule, not to be divided by class, ethnicity, gender, race, preference, or any other excuse
States rights are not to be trifled with at the federal level and the federal role in government is to be defined appropriately for the benefit of our states and their residents of our nation
The Second Amendment does provide our citizens with the right to bear arms, but proper safeguards against their misuse are required for a safe and secure nation
Registering to vote and to vote more efficiently is not an objective; it is a right to be defended and guaranteed
fiscal responsibility
The federal budget should be balanced every fiscal year with the possible exception when operating in a sustained declared national emergency
Progressive taxation is not sound fiscal policy in the modern age - equal, fair, and timely taxation is - but safety nets for our most vulnerable citizens are necessary features of a truly democratic society
Philanthropy is a viable funding source when the government, the private sector, or both cannot provide needed dollars for socially beneficial projects
First responders and teachers should be better paid for their services
military & intelligence services
America should keep and fund a strong military capable of defending the United States from foreign aggression
Our intelligence services are a necessary component of a safe and secure America and should, therefore, be nurtured and cultivated
foreign policy
America is and should be a global leader by example, not an isolationist nation ignorant of reality
Our Allies are America’s most incredible friends and should be treasured for the legacy they represent
American foreign policy should be rational, predictable, and communicated to friend and foe alike
energy & environment
Climate change is real; scientifically sound; to be taken seriously
Traditional energy sources should be supplemented and improved through the creation and adoption of more efficient alternatives such as solar, wind, and battery
Offshore oil drilling, such as near Florida as often proposed, is a bad idea
media & the press
The press is not the “enemy of the people" and is, as Thomas Jefferson argued, a necessary safeguard against tyranny and those who would attack or significantly weaker our democracy
law & justice
The rule of law in America is holy and to be vigorously protected
We have always been and will always be a nation of immigrants and, therefore, should have clear and measurable ways to provide reasonable paths to citizenship in America today
american ingenuity & innovation
Innovation and ingenuity are the hallmarks of American advancement and quality of living improvement for all our citizens as well as those around the globe where possible
Manufacturing capacity and self-sufficiency must be restored to our shores without closing the door to free and fair trade
The peaceful exploration of space is vital to our future
EDUCATION
Every American should have access to an affordable, superior education, including college and trade schools
Every school and school district in America should be equally funded and prioritized with clear national standards that are our floor, not our ceiling, for ensuring a quality education today
No student should go hungry or endangered
Political Leadership & behavior
All elected officials should conduct themselves in office and on the campaign trail with the utmost integrity and ethics
American political leaders at all levels of public service must operate with the highest degree of transparency, accessibility, and accountability
Political differences are to be celebrated, not denigrated or bullied