Political Quotes

On the record
Executive sessions with closed doors, shrouded from the public gaze and public criticism, constitute an exceptional part of our system, too much in harmony with the proceedings of other Governments less liberal in character.
Said by
Charles Sumner
Massachusetts

Editor's note · Context

Sumner critiques closed executive sessions, suggesting they are contrary to the principles of a liberal government.

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Nay, more,--if it would be criminal in these several clusters of States to reëstablish the Institution of War as Arbiter of Justice, then is it criminal in the Commonwealth of Nations to continue it.

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It applies an arrogant and unrelenting ostracism to all who express themselves against Slavery.

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Controlled by such a code, employing such representatives, sustained by such agencies, animated by such Furies, and producing such fruits of tears and bitterness, it must be open to question.

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