Here we are the way politics ought to be in America; the politics of happiness, the politics of purpose and the politics of joy.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the ideal nature of politics focused on happiness and purpose rather than conflict and division.
Hubert H. Humphrey's quote envisions an ideal political landscape in America, where the focus is on fostering happiness, purpose, and joy among its citizens. It suggests that politics should not only serve the interests of power but also strive to enhance the overall well-being and fulfillment of the people, leading to a more united and content society.
In practice
In a campaign speech, one might say, 'As we strive for progress, let us remember the politics of happiness as envisioned by Hubert H. Humphrey.'
It was once said that the moral test of government is how that government treats those who are in the dawn of life, the children; those who are in the twilight of life, the elderly; and those who are in the shadows of life, the sick, the needy and the handicapped.
Much of our American progress has been the product of the individual who had an idea; pursued it; fashioned it; tenaciously clung to it against all odds; and then produced it, sold it, and profited from it.
We need an America with the wisdom of experience. But we must not let America grow old in spirit.
You cannot go around and keep score. If you keep score on the good things and the bad things, you'll find out that you're a very miserable person. God gave man the ability to forget, which is one of the greatest attributes you have. Because if you remember everything that's happened to you, you generally remember that which is the most unfortunate.
The pursuit of peace resembles the building of a great cathedral. It is the work of a generation. In concept it requires a mater-architect; in execution, the labors of many.
The President is the peoples lobbyist.
The world must be made safe for democracy. Its peace must be planted upon the tested foundations of political liberty. We have no selfish ends to serve. We desire no conquest, no dominion. We seek no indemnities for ourselves, no material compensation for the sacrifices we shall freely make.
In my mind, President Snow should be viewed in front of marble pillars hung with oversized flags. It's jarring to see him surrounded by the ordinary objects in the room. Like taking the lid off a pot and finding a fanged viper instead of stew.
The danger in our system is that the general government, which represents the interests of the whole, may encroach on the states, which represent the peculiar and local interests, or that the latter may encroach on the former.
You can't give the government the power to do good without also giving it the power to do bad - in fact, to do anything it wants.
I will never apologize for the United States of America - I don't care what the facts are. Said after 'Vincennes' shot down an Iranian Airliner.
For somebody who loves foreign policy, being Secretary is the best job in the world - but it doesn't happen twice.
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