Political Quotes

Thomas Paine: If there were a Constitution, it certainly could be referred to; and the debate on any constitutional point would…

On the recordJanuary 1, 1791
If there were a Constitution, it certainly could be referred to; and the debate on any constitutional point would terminate by producing the Constitution.
Said by
Thomas Paine

Editor's note · Context

Paine argues that if a true constitution existed, it would serve as a definitive reference point to resolve any constitutional debate.

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