DEFER NOTHING
A Commitment to Future Generations
Let future generations inherit our progress, not our debt.
Defer Nothing is a nonpartisan commitment to responsible government. We believe every generation should pay for the promises it makes, plan for foreseeable costs, and leave future generations financially prepared - not burdened by obligations we failed to fund.
FOUR QUESTIONS EVERY PUBLIC COMMITMENT SHOULD ANSWER1. What will it really cost?Include the full lifetime costs, not just the initial appropriation.2. Where will the money come from, and is it sufficient and sustainable?Identify credible funding sources supported by reasonable assumptions.3. What happens if the assumptions are wrong?Examine downside scenarios and establish responsible contingency plans.4. Who will report on the results?Require transparent reporting, periodic reviews, and accountability for corrective action.Answering these questions does not automatically establish fiscal responsibility.
The answers must withstand reasonable public scrutiny.
OUR TEN-POINT PLEDGE
1. Fully Fund Every New Commitment
2. Confront Existing Obligations
3. Share the Responsibility
4. Demand Value for Taxpayers
5. Disclose the Full Financial Picture
6. Prepare for Emergencies
7. Protect Local Taxpayers
8. Save for Tomorrow's Obligations
9. Accept Public Accountability
10. Advance Lasting Fiscal Reform
These ten principles summarize our commitment to responsible government.
Read the complete Defer Nothing Pledge for the full commitments and explanations.