Clarifying Negative Campaigning

There’s confusion about what qualifies as negative campaigning. Ethical campaigns don’t need to be “nice,” nor must candidates only focus on themselves. In Santa Clara, candidates should critique opponents’ policies, records, and character when it helps voters make informed choices.

The key is truth and evidence. Criticism must be accurate and supported by facts. For example, it’s fair to inform voters that Anthony Becker is indicted, awaiting trial, and has voted on 49er-related matters despite apparent conflicts of interest. These facts are relevant for the public to know.

It’s also important to distinguish between legal and ethical standards. The law sets the minimum standard, but ethics requires more—earning trust through fairness, truth,  impartiality, and independent judgment. While breaking the law may result in removal from office, ethical lapses, even if legal, can destroy public trust.

The negative campaigning that must be condemned distorts facts, provides no evidence, shifts blame unfairly, reinforces sexist stereotypes, or ruins reputations without cause. Santa Clarans deserve better; candidates should deliver more; and voters need to hold everyone accountable for their promises. Now is the time for action.