Any Reservists out there that ran for public office? What insights do you have about being a Reservist while in an elected public office?

2024-05-03T22:52:06-04:00

Going off DoDD 1344.10 I am under the impression I don't need to go about getting approval to run for office (local City Council). The moment I'm put on orders for 270+ days then that triggers all sorts of restriction and required approvals at the Service Secretary level. Next, I have to explicitly disclose any depiction of me in uniform does not imply endorsement from the Army. Finally, any depictions of me in uniform or military service connection cannot be the dominating projection of my campaign.

So if anyone else has run, and has other insights as it pertains to being a reservist while in an elected public office I'd be interested in hearing from you.

Response by SrA John Monette made May 4 at 2024 10:34 AM

2024-05-04T10:34:01-04:00

Not sure if the Hatch Act applies to reservists but check on that.

Response by SrA John Monette made May 4 at 2024 10:34 AM

2024-05-04T10:34:37-04:00

Especially if it’s a partisan position

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made May 4 at 2024 10:49 AM

2024-05-04T10:49:31-04:00

Lot's of reservists in public office, but, you have to get elected first, and politics is nasty. We had an A-10 pilot reservist run for LT Governor. The opposition bombarded the Air Force, DoD, etc. with complaints. Investigations were opened. The only thing her campaign stuff had was a picture of here in flight suit next to the A-10 with a disclaimer that there is no AF or other endorsement. Still the haters pressed forward. Top it off, she was in the first look Zone for O-4. Unfortunately, she had only heard urban myths about boards. Since I sat a number of boards, I counseled her to help allay the fear. Time passes and she didn't get past the primary but did get promoted. The guy that did ultimately become LT Gov was the chair of an ethics probe that censured her in the legislature. In politics, there are many who are always out to get you. Nobody is your friend.

Response by COL Randall C. made May 4 at 2024 10:52 AM

2024-05-04T10:52:46-04:00

Those are the big items, but you should review the ethics guidelines* which further clarify DoDD 1344.10.
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* Reserve Component Ethics Issues - 14th Ethics Counselor Course Deskbook (October 2016) - https://dodsoco.ogc.osd.mil/Portals/102/reserve_ethics.pdf

reserve_ethics.pdf

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 5 at 2024 12:07 PM

2024-05-05T12:07:49-04:00

I haven't been a candidate, but I have assisted in a few reservist's campaigns. Some of the issues you mention are more problematic in theory than they are in action. I would examine the campaigns and service history of LTC Tulsi Gabbard. If she can sit in the House as a reservist I am sure that you can navigate the shoals of local office. I have also seen a large number of candidates with pictures of themselves in uniform. You do need to clearly state the "non-endorsement" phrase, especially if you are going to buck the system in your locale.
A final note, there are way too many blanks and "N/A" s in your history. I recognize the importance of OPSEC in politics, but it's getting a little late for you to put all your cards on the table.