The investor-backed Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility (ICCR) has called on 200 CEOs to support democratic institutions including free and fair elections and a peaceful transfer of power ahead of the US presidential election. The CEOs targeted are all part of the Business Roundtable (BRT) – a Washington-based lobbyist association representing the chief executives of some of the largest US companies. In the letter, ICCR investor members raised concerns that a destabilised democracy leads to deteriorated economic conditions, creating risks to the public and the economy and hampering the long-term value of investments. “Fair elections and a strong rule of law are essential conditions for a flourishing democracy and a stable economy,” said ICCR CEO Josh Zinner. “As businesses participate in our politics via lobbying and political spending, we encourage them to responsibly use their voice.” The threat of political violence around the poll on 5 November looms large and is being further fuelled by misinformation campaigns and AI deepfakes both from within and outside the US, the statement warned. “As investors, we are concerned about the destabilising social and economic effects of election misinformation, particularly given the advent of AI, and any restrictions on citizens’ legitimate right to vote,” said ICCR Board Chair Rob Fohr. “Upholding the rule of law and the right to vote in free and fair elections should be a priority for everyone, including companies and their stakeholders.” The ICCR urged businesses to issue public statements and encourage actions in support of democratic norms, including: free and fair elections; thorough and complete counting of all ballots; policies and procedures promoting citizens’ right to vote across states; the condemnation of voter intimidation; peaceful transfer of power; and political donations and lobbying activities to support all this.
