The accords were fig leaves of democratic procedure to hide the nakedness of Stalinist dictatorship.
George F. KennanRead
If elected members of any body - whether it's a state house or Congress - were not willing to take career-ending or at least election-losing votes, I would not have the right to vote today.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of bold decision-making in leadership and governance.
Elizabeth Esty's quote highlights the necessity for elected officials to be courageous in their decision-making. By implying that leaders must sometimes make unpopular choices that may endanger their careers, she underscores the foundation of democracy and the hard-fought rights that allow citizens to vote freely today. It signifies that the sacrifices made by prior leaders for the greater good are what enable current democratic processes.
Themes
CourageLeadershipDemocracySacrificeDecision-Making
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a speech about the importance of integrity in public office.
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