It ends by enjoining the following:
Each of us has a role to play and responsibilities to uphold.
Our elected officials must lead by example and govern effectively in ways that deliver for the American people.
This, in turn, will help to restore trust in public service.
Then-President George W. Bush, center, poses with President-elect Barack Obama, and former presidents, from left, George H.W. Bush, left, Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter, right, in the Oval Office of the White House.AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite
When united by these convictions, America is stronger as a country and an inspiration for others.
As a diverse nation of people with different backgrounds and beliefs, democracy holds us together.
We, the undersigned, represent a wide range of views across a breadth of issues.
We recognize that these views can exist peaceably side by side when rooted in the principles of democracy.
Debate and disagreement are central features in a healthy democracy.
Civility and respect in political discourse, whether in an election year or otherwise, are essential.
But that interest is undermined when others see our own house in disarray.
Each of us has a role to play and responsibilities to uphold.
Our elected officials must lead by example and govern effectively in ways that deliver for the American people.
This, in turn, will help to restore trust in public service.
When united by these convictions, America is stronger as a country and an inspiration for others.
