Political Quotes

“I was in grade school when President Reagan was elected, so my thoughts and observations are not based on any particular policy, but on the man, on the spirit himself. We took great courage as a Nation in watching him as he dealt with an attempt on his own life. We watched in awe at his unwavering commitment to freedom everywhere around the world and his commitment to peace through strength, which allowed him to win the Cold War without a shot being fired. He moved an entire generation of young people to that same cry for freedom, the battle to spread liberty and democracy and freedom and equality around the world, and he did it with a sunny, hopeful, cheerful, optimistic demeanor. He appealed to the very best in us, never preying on our worst fears, but backed up by a steely resolve, backed up by principle, backed up by the notion that it was better to be right than to be popular. In doing so, he succeeded with an understanding, a very clear understanding, of the power of the American spirit when it is unencumbered, when it is let loose to achieve its own potential and carve out its piece of the American dream. He always believed in the goodness of the American spirit and the human spirit around the world. He understood that the strength of America, the resilience of America is in her people. He inspired in us all of those great factors without preying on the worst. Madam Speaker, may we ever be vigilant gatekeepers of his shining city on the hill.”