Don't Overthrow the Government: A Playful Guide for Federal Nominees

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Below is a revised checklist that not only highlights behaviors to avoid but also outlines some “common sense” penalties—such as fines, imprisonment, and even the loss or forfeiture of public office—that could follow if these guidelines aren’t followed. Keep in mind that this list is not legal advice but a plain-language overview to help ensure that behavior remains within legal limits, especially for those nominated for federal positions.

1. Don’t File False or Fraudulent Claims:

   • What Not to Do: Never file any false legal documents (like liens or encumbrances) against someone’s property. Always verify that your statements are accurate and evidence-backed.
   • Common Sense Penalties: Violating this rule could lead to criminal charges that might include fines, imprisonment, and, if you hold or seek public office, disqualification or forfeiture of that office.

2. Avoid Threats or Intimidation:

   • What Not to Do: Refrain from using words, gestures, or actions that might be seen as threatening or intimidating, especially to deter someone from exercising their legal rights or performing their duties.
   • Common Sense Penalties: Engaging in threatening behavior can result in criminal penalties such as fines and jail time. Additionally, if you are a public official or a nominee, this conduct can lead to removal from office or disqualification from holding public office.

3. Don’t Incite Violence or Panic:

   • What Not to Do: Avoid using your platform—whether on social media or in public forums—to spread false or inflammatory information that may cause public panic or incite harmful behavior.
   • Common Sense Penalties: If your actions lead to dangerous outcomes (such as inciting violence or endangering public figures), you could face criminal charges including fines and imprisonment, along with potential forfeiture of any government position you hold.

4. Respect Court Orders and the Judicial Process:

   • What Not to Do: Never obstruct, interfere with, or attempt to disrupt the duties of judges or other public officials by defying court orders.
   • Common Sense Penalties: Violations can result in criminal sanctions (like fines and jail time) and, for government employees or nominees, disqualification or removal from office.

5. Do Not Advocate the Overthrow of the Constitutional Government:

   • What Not to Do: Avoid publicly calling for the radical dismantling or overthrow of the government as set out by the Constitution (this includes advocating for the abolition of the judicial branch or pushing for the impeachment of judges for merely following lawful orders).
   • Common Sense Penalties: Such advocacy can result in criminal charges, loss of eligibility for public office, and serious political consequences that might permanently bar you from government service.

6. Steer Clear of Promoting or Participating in Unlawful Strikes or Disruptions:

   • What Not to Do: Do not join or support strikes or other disruptive actions aimed at hindering government operations in ways that the law does not protect.
   • Common Sense Penalties: Participation in or support for unlawful strikes can lead to legal actions including fines, imprisonment, and, for those in or aspiring to government positions, disqualification from holding public office.

7. Be Careful with Your Social Media Presence:

   • What Not to Do: Use your large audience responsibly. Avoid making hyperbolic, incendiary, or false claims that could be interpreted as inciting harm or undermining constitutional institutions.
   • Common Sense Penalties: If your social media activity leads to harmful real-world consequences (such as inciting violence or panic), you may face criminal charges (fines, jail time) and could be barred from holding a federal position.

8. Maintain a Commitment to the Rule of Law:

   • What Not to Do: Even if you have strong opinions or are advocating for change, ensure that all your actions and statements support the constitutional system rather than seek to dismantle or subvert it.
   • Common Sense Penalties: Acting in defiance of the rule of law can trigger criminal proceedings and, for current or prospective public officials, can result in the forfeiture of office and permanent disqualification from government roles.

9. Stay Educated and Seek Legal Advice When in Doubt:

   • What Not to Do: Don’t assume that your interpretation of your rights or responsibilities is complete. When uncertain about legal boundaries, seek counsel from legal experts.
   • Common Sense Penalties: Failing to get proper legal guidance might lead to inadvertent violations, which could then result in the penalties mentioned above—ranging from fines and imprisonment to the loss of any government office.

Summary:
If you are nominated for or hold a federal position, it is crucial to steer clear of actions like filing fraudulent claims, using threats, inciting violence, or advocating for radical changes that undermine the constitutional order. Not only can these actions lead to criminal penalties such as fines and jail time, but they may also result in the forfeiture of public office or permanent disqualification from serving in government roles. Always consider legal advice to ensure that your conduct remains well within the bounds of the law.