Anti communist Quote by David Frum
“Reagan survived the Iran-Contra scandal because the elements of it that were illegal (aiding anti-communist Nicaraguans) were popular and the things that were unpopular (arming the Iranians) were quite legal.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Political commentary by David Frum, 1990s
The scandal persisted because illegal actions were politically popular, while legal actions were unpopular, showing how public sentiment can outweigh legality.
In simple terms: Public support can shield illegal acts, while legal acts may be condemned if unpopular.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how perception can skew moral judgments.
Themes
politics
ethics
public opinion
law
media
perception
Mood
cautious
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
commentary
political
When to use this quote
- campaign messaging
- policy advocacy
- media analysis
- public relations
- legislative debate
Key Concepts
moral relativism
political strategy
public sentiment
Questions to Reflect On
- How does public opinion shape legal accountability?
- When should unpopular legal actions be defended?
A Different Perspective
Legal actions can still be condemned if they clash with public values.
![“There was no news in the Dan Rather piece. They didn't say [to Bush]: "We found a piece of paper that was overlooked in the 300,000 pieces of paper that were covered in the Iran-Contra hearings, and we have a piece of news we'd like to ask you about." CBS decided to create a media event and cover…” quote by Roger Ailes](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/110/roger-ailes-2123_american-history_there-was-no-news-in-the-dan-rather-piec_879861.jpg)
![“[democrats] hated Richard Nixon, and no wonder. It was Nixon who sent Alger Hiss to jail, and Nixon who waged the Vietnam War after the Democrats gave up,” quote by David Frum](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/63d/david-frum-3455_democracy_democrats-hated-richard-nixon-and-no-won_232462.jpg)
