PRINCIPLE #6: OBJECTIVITY
We staunchly believe that political parties, engaged citizens, and elected officials should feel free to vigorously introduce, debate, and compete with one another in open forums over differing values, principles, and ideas. Nevertheless, if we are to work toward solutions that benefit the greatest number of our citizens, must also find common ground on which to build something new. FORWARD believes that verifiable facts and objective evidence can serve as common ground, especially when feelings and opinions differ.
Rationale: Mutually agreed on facts can facilitate constructive conversations, balance claims with evidence, and foster the formulation of more productive policies. Personal attacks, groundless conspiracy theories, and fearmongering have no place in the democratic process.