Here is something that makes a lot of sense. The Washington State GOP is planning on running criminal and civil background checks on every one running for Congress or for State Political Office. Historically, this has been the job of opposing political parties, but it would seem the current strategy is to wait until their opponents are committed before releasing damning information. In order to avoid this embarrassing speed bump, the Washington State GOP is thinking, check out your own first, before the other guy digs up the dirt.
There are the usual requisites for political candidates, such as being able to raise campaign money, being involved in the party, etc. But by running background checks, there is less chance of a political candidate sneaking on board with any untoward baggage.
According to the article in SeattlePI.Com, the party “could take such actions as denying access to party mailing lists — hitherto done with candidates who violate the party’s “11th Commandment” by denouncing fellow Republicans — and blackballing a tainted contender from party-sponsored debates.”
This is no small matter, conducting background checks on political candidates. This is something that the national committees of both major political parties should take into serious consideration. Background checks may well help eliminate the embarrassing moments that create headlines and the ensuing public mistrust.
