go on record

1. Embrace a position publicly. For example, I want to go on record in favor of the mayor's reelection. It is also put as for the record, as in For the record, we support sending troops there. The record in both signifies either publication or public knowledge. Both expressions date from the first half of the 1900s, although slightly different phrases, such as put on record, are older. Also see just for the record; off the record.

Example Sentences

The votes marked the third time in the last year that Sanders has forced senators to go on record over arms sales to Israel.

From Salon

None would go on record or even reveal any details anonymously out of concern that their families could be hurt.

From BBC

Across the United States, Latino organizers are lifting their phones not to go viral but to go on record.

From Los Angeles Times

Most did not want to go on record with their opinions because of a fear of reprisals, but one footballer, who plays in the sixth tier of the women's game, was willing to speak anonymously.

From BBC

“And I will go on record as saying that. ... We’ve never had a bear kill anybody.”

From Los Angeles Times