Are endorsements by sitting officials ethical?

A few years ago I wrote an article about endorsements and ethics in District 113, and since we're back in the thick of Election Season, with officials past and present offering endorsements, I felt that a refresher of the topic would be appropriate.

From an ethical standpoint I don’t believe that a sitting member of the School or Park Boards, or the City Council ought to endorse anyone. They need to remain neutral and beyond reproach. Who they vote for in private is entirely their own business, but publicly - they need to stay out of it, and in my opinion, by endorsing someone they come dangerously close to violating election laws.

I have the greatest of respect for past Board and Council Members, and don’t discount their opinions, but I never bought into the whole concept of seeking endorsements from past or current members, because it seems sleezy, unethical, and contrived. It seems to perpetuate the continuance of the ”same ole, same ole” nonsense that our Community has been dealing with for many years, and if we want to MOVE FORWARD, then we have to put the past in the past. Let the voters come to the debates, do their own research into a candidate's background, qualifications, and positions, and make their own decisions.

I’m David S. Greenberg, have stood and continue to stand for Ethics, Fiscal Responsibility, and Honesty. I’d appreciate your vote. Thank you.