4 candidates sign ethics code Blaine House hopefuls pledge to run issue-oriented campaigns

AUGUSTA – Four candidates for governor signed the Maine Code of Election Ethics on Wednesday, pledging themselves to conduct fair-minded campaigns in what has become a fixture of modern top-of-the-ticket politicking in the state.

“My campaign will be committed to the principles of honesty, fairness, respect for my opponent, responsibility and compassion,” vowed Democrat John Baldacci, Republican Peter Cianchette, Green Independent Jonathan Carter and independent John Michael in signing the code.

Designed to encourage “substantive issue-oriented election campaigns,” the code has been in use since 1996 and is sponsored by the Margaret Chase Smith Center for Public Policy at the University of Maine and the Margaret Chase Smith Library in Skowhegan.

Signatories pledge to emphasize their own views, beliefs and experiences and to make available documentation to support factual claims. Candidates abiding by the code “shall not use or agree to let third parties use subtle deceptions, half-truths, falsifications or such practices as push polling.”

Demeaning references to an opponent are to be avoided.

“I shall not use or allow to be used personal attacks, innuendo or stereotyping,” the code declares.

Asked if the gubernatorial campaign had produced ethical problems, Cianchette said, “not to date.” He described the code as “a reminder” for candidates.

“We’ve done this since it started here,” Baldacci said. “I think it’s a good practice here in Maine.”

Carter, referring to his unique status in the race as a publicly financed candidate, suggested that Maine’s Clean Election system presented “another level of election ethics.”

Michael spoke optimistically about the code’s potential to “put pressure on the candidates.”