I'm running for ArbCom, because, as I write this, I'm not sure there are 9 candidates who are better than an empty position.
I've been on Wikipedia since 2005, and an Admin since 2006. Although my block log is "checkered" (one in 2012, one in 2010, and the rest in 2008 or earlier), and I'm presently subject to a topic ban (in what has been called one of the worst ArbCom decisions, ever), I believe I can act in the best interests of Wikipedia. I assure you that, if elected, and I appeal my topic ban, I will recuse.
I think some of the members of ArbCom have lost sight of the concept that the purpose of Wikipedia is to add and maintain content, and that those who discourage the addition of content, whether or not otherwise meeting the guidelines, are not acting in the best interest of Wikipedia. These include both POV-pushers and those who insult other Wikipedians, whether or not the insult is deserved.
My only exception to that is that, if an editor is blocked, I am willing to see that his or her edits do not make it into Wikipedia, even if otherwise good.
As for the pressure, my name has been reviled by Alex Jones, Ilena Rosenthal, Carl Hewitt, and there are two hate videos about me on YouTube, all relating to my actions on Wikipedia.
If I decide I would not vote for myself, due to the presence of a sufficient number of adequate candidates, or a likely inability to have sufficient time, I will withdraw. If the voting system is (modified) approval voting, then my withdrawal should not affect the ranking of the other candidates.
I use my real name, and am willing to identify myself to the Foundation if elected.
Aside from a few edits under an IP, my only other accounts are 3rdMouse (talk·contribs) and one previously revealed to an ArbCom member, and which will be revealed to ArbCom before the election, which I may have used for edits on a particular subject known to be hazardous to those commenting on it, both here and in the real world.
