Political Quotes

On the record
If our powers are not guided aright it is better that we should not have them at all; but we must have the power itself before we can guide it aright.
Said by
Teddy Roosevelt
Republican · New York

Editor's note · Context

This quote reflects Roosevelt's belief in the importance of having the right intentions before wielding power.

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More from Teddy Roosevelt

Apr 22, 1910

The man who does nothing cuts the same sordid figure in the pages of history, whether he be cynic, or fop, or voluptuary.

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Feb 23, 1912

I will accept the nomination for President if it is tendered to me, and I will adhere to this decision until the convention has expressed its preference.

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Oct 13, 1912

I don’t know anything about who the man was who shot me to-night.

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Aug 30, 1910

Let not him who is houseless pull down the house of another, but let him work diligently and build one for himself, thus by example assuring that his own shall be safe from violence when built.

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