Skip to content

The executive, in our government is not the sole, it is…

“The executive, in our government is not the sole, it is scarcely the principle, object of my jealousy. The tyranny of the legislature is the most formidable dread at present and will be for many years. That of the executive will come in its turn, but it will be at a remote period.” quote by Thomas Jefferson
Download Open image
“The executive, in our government is not the sole, it is scarcely the principle, object of my jealousy. The tyranny of the legislature is the most formidable dread at present and will be for many years. That of the executive will come in its turn, but it will be at a remote period.”

Thomas Jefferson

About This Quote

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

The executive branch is not the main source of jealousy; legislative tyranny is the greater current threat, with executive tyranny to follow later.

In simple terms: Legislative power is the main danger now, executive power later.

Key Takeaway

Watch legislative overreach.

Themes

politics power government jealousy

Mood

concerned serious

Type

political historical

When to use this quote

  • legislative debates
  • constitutional conventions
  • policy making
  • public protests

Key Concepts

separation of powers tyranny checks and balances

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can citizens curb legislative overreach?
  • What safeguards protect against future executive tyranny?
A Different Perspective

Executive tyranny may be less immediate but can become severe.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Thomas Jefferson

Explore all 2,098 Thomas Jefferson quotes

More Dread quotes

Browse all 813 Dread quotes