Our Standards
The Democratic TEA Party is a research-driven organization. Every position we take starts with data, not ideology. We study how government performs against three standards, publish what we find, and let the evidence guide our recommendations. This page explains what those standards are, what we are researching, and how we decide which candidates to endorse.
The TEA Standard
Every elected official is measured against these three pillars.
Transparency
Can the public see what their government is doing? We look at voting records, financial disclosures, town hall attendance, and whether officials communicate in plain language. If voters cannot find the information, it is not transparent.
Efficiency
Does government deliver results with the resources it has? We examine whether legislation includes measurable outcomes, whether programs are reviewed for performance, and whether officials support evidence-based policymaking over political theater.
Affordability
Is government making life accessible for working families? We study how policy decisions affect the cost of housing, healthcare, childcare, energy, and education. Affordability is not about cutting budgets. It is about whether people can live a dignified life.
What We Are Researching
Healthcare Costs
Why do Americans pay more for healthcare than any other country and get worse outcomes? We are researching pricing transparency requirements, administrative overhead in insurance billing, and the impact of hospital consolidation on what families actually pay.
Housing & Cost of Living
Why is it so expensive to live in a decent home? We are studying how zoning restrictions limit housing supply, how energy costs compound affordability problems, and which state and local policies have actually reduced the cost of living for residents.
Government Accountability
How do we know if government programs work? We are investigating performance measurement frameworks, sunset provisions that force re-evaluation of spending, and independent oversight mechanisms that hold agencies accountable to taxpayers.
How We Endorse
What We Look For
- A voting record that reflects TEA principles, not just campaign rhetoric
- A platform with specific, measurable policy commitments
- Willingness to publish financial disclosures beyond what the law requires
- A track record of showing up: town halls, public forums, constituent meetings
What Disqualifies
- Refusing to disclose donors or financial interests
- Voting to block independent oversight or auditing
- Prioritizing major donors over constituents in legislative decisions
- Opposing transparency reforms that would let voters evaluate their performance
Our research and candidate evaluations are published as they are completed. Sign up to be the first to see them.
Sign Up for Updates