What type of bond guarantees that a public official will perform the duties of their office faithfully?

A public official bond is specifically designed to guarantee that a public official will perform their duties faithfully and uphold the principles of their office. This type of bond offers protection to the public against potential losses that might occur due to the misconduct or failure of the official to carry out their responsibilities effectively. By requiring public officials to obtain this bond, government entities can ensure a layer of accountability and promote ethical behavior within public service roles.

While performance bonds relate to the completion of specific contracts, and contract bonds are generally associated with contractual obligations in construction or other projects, the public official bond directly targets the actions and responsibilities of individuals in public office. Surety bonds encompass a broader category that includes various types of bonds, including public official bonds, but does not specifically define the unique function and purpose served by the latter. Therefore, the public official bond is the correct choice as it explicitly addresses the accountability of public officials.