We evaluate candidates on their record, policy positions, integrity, independence, and commitment to the communities they seek to represent. Party affiliation alone does not determine eligibility.

• Working-class representation: understanding and advocating for working people and their families.
• Independence from corporate influence: serving constituents rather than wealthy donors or corporate interests.
• Integrity and accountability: honest positions, responsibility for actions, and a willingness to be held accountable.
• Civil rights, public education, and community investment: respect for constituents, transparent government, strong schools, public services, and local communities.
• Engagement and accessibility: communicating with voters and answering substantive questions.

Accepting a corporate PAC contribution, as defined by this policy, disqualifies a candidate from endorsement. Returning a contribution does not automatically restore eligibility; the board reviews the full, documented circumstances and campaign safeguards.

We will not endorse a candidate who benefits from corporate PAC spending intended to support their election, subject to verified facts and a fair opportunity for the candidate to address material questions. Spending against an opponent is not automatically treated as spending for the candidate under review.

No candidate may purchase an endorsement, and no endorsement is granted in exchange for funding, favors, or promises of access.

Research

We review policy positions, public statements, voting records when applicable, campaign finance disclosures, and other reliable public records.

Candidate engagement

We strongly prefer interviews so candidates can answer substantive questions and explain their priorities. An interview is not required in every circumstance when the board has sufficient information.

Evaluation, decision & communication

We assess available evidence against our mission and standards. The board may endorse, decline to endorse, or defer while seeking more information. Candidates are informed of the decision and participating board members’ votes.

We prioritize official records, direct statements, documented actions, and other credible sources. Serious allegations are not treated as established facts without appropriate verification. When material concerns arise, we seek context and, where practical, an opportunity for the candidate to respond.

If a material factual error affects an endorsement or public statement, we review it and make appropriate corrections. These standards apply regardless of party, relationship, or political popularity.

The Tennessee Report currently does not accept organizational funding. Candidates, donors, outside organizations, and others may not dictate a decision through money, favors, threats, or promises of access.

If we accept organizational funding in the future, we intend to publish an annual funding summary and disclose relevant financial relationships or conflicts of interest. Board members must disclose relevant conflicts and recuse themselves when required.

The endorsement board has final authority. Endorsements require a simple majority of eligible participating members in a properly constituted vote, subject to quorum and recusal procedures. The board maintains a record of decisions and participating votes.

No candidate is entitled to an endorsement. Board members are expected to vote independently and in good faith based on available evidence and these standards.

An endorsement reflects the information available at the time; it is not permanent. Credible new information may prompt review, including corporate-PAC violations, material dishonesty, serious conflicts, corruption, misuse of office, or substantial conduct inconsistent with these standards.

After reviewing evidence, seeking context, and allowing a response when reasonably possible, the board may maintain, suspend, or withdraw an endorsement. A withdrawal will be publicly explained with appropriate care for unverified information and privacy.

Our endorsements express our values, research, and judgment—not a guarantee of future conduct or a replacement for a voter’s own informed decision. We commit to consistent standards, corrections when needed, conflict disclosure, and transparency in how decisions are reached.

People before corporate interests. Accountability before political convenience. Working families before the status quo.