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The passion for office among members of Congress is very…

“The passion for office among members of Congress is very great, if not absolutely disreputable, and greatly embarrasses the operations of the Government. They create offices by their own votes and then seek to fill them themselves.” quote by James K. Polk
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“The passion for office among members of Congress is very great, if not absolutely disreputable, and greatly embarrasses the operations of the Government. They create offices by their own votes and then seek to fill them themselves.”

James K. Polk

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Congress members create offices for themselves, undermining government efficiency and integrity.

In simple terms: Self‑appointed offices harm government.

Key Takeaway

Demand transparent appointment processes.

Themes

politics government corruption

Mood

cynical critical

Type

political historical

When to use this quote

  • legislative reform
  • public administration
  • ethics training
  • accountability audits

Key Concepts

patronage institutional decay

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we ensure appointments serve public good?
  • What safeguards prevent self‑appointment?
A Different Perspective

Self‑interest may be justified as constituency service.

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