The historical record of US democratic norms
kept in public.
The Standing Record documents events involving authoritarianism, anti-democratic behavior, and corruption in US governance, applied to all actors regardless of party. No anti-democratic action is too small to record: a precinct-level incident is filed with the same care as a national one. Every entry is anchored to a primary source — a court filing, an agency record, a citizen-captured recording — or to two independent investigative outlets. Submit a story to the archive.
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- Free and fair elections Elections that are accessible, accurate, peaceful, and respected by losers as well as winners. The foundation of democratic legitimacy.
- Rule of law and equal application The same law applies to everyone, including those who wield power. Lawful processes — not personal will — determine outcomes.
- Separation of powers and independent oversight Checks and balances among branches of government, plus independent watchdogs (inspectors general, GAO, the courts) functioning without political interference.
- Free press Journalists able to report on power without fear of retaliation, prosecution, or coercive access restrictions. A free press is the public's primary tool for accountability.
- Freedom of speech, assembly, and association The right to speak, protest, organize, and associate — including in criticism of those in power — without state retaliation.
- Public service over self-dealing Public office is held in trust for the public. Officials do not enrich themselves, their families, or their donors through the exercise of public power.
- Civilian control of armed and uniformed services Military and law enforcement are subordinate to civilian, lawful authority and do not serve as instruments of political power against citizens.
- Honest government data and scientific integrity Public records, agency data, and scientific findings reflect reality, not the preferences of those in power. Government scientists and statisticians can do their jobs without political retaliation.
- Civil rights and equal protection Government does not target, exclude, or disadvantage people on the basis of identity, belief, or association. The protection of law extends equally to all.
- Due process Before the state takes liberty, property, or status, there is notice, a hearing, counsel where required, and meaningful opportunity to be heard.
- National sovereignty and freedom from foreign influence Decisions made by US officials reflect lawful US interests — not undisclosed foreign payments, foreign electoral interference, or irregular foreign-intelligence relationships.
- Accountable use of state force When the state wields coercive power — police, corrections, federal law enforcement, immigration enforcement — that wielding is itself subject to law, oversight, and consequence.