Political Quotes

On the record
Honest utterance generally frightens or offends the wise and prudent; but it gains the popular heart, and thus renders political parties the greatest service, though it is one they least know how to appreciate.
Said by
Charles Sumner
Massachusetts

Editor's note · Context

Sumner argues that honest speech can be unsettling to the powerful but ultimately serves the public good.

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Without yielding to any of these extreme views with regard to the mischiefs or the benefits of party, all should agree that the only true and legitimate object of such an association is to uphold, advance, and develop certain principles…

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It is a cause which, though long kept in check throughout our country, as also in Europe, now confronts the people and their rulers, demanding to be heard.

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

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