Administration Quote by Edward Snowden
“I don't think it is the most important thing. I think it is the fact that the director of national intelligence gave a false statement to Congress under oath, which is a felony. If we allow our officials to knowingly break the law publicly and face no consequences, we're instituting a culture of immunity, and this is what I think historically will actually be considered the biggest disappointment of the [Barack] Obama administration.”
About This Quote
Source Congressional testimony, 2013
When leaders lie under oath, it erodes accountability and creates a culture of impunity, undermining democratic institutions.
In simple terms: Lying officials damage trust and law.
Demand accountability and enforce consequences.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- voting
- civic activism
- journalism
- policy reform
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms ensure officials face consequences?
- How can citizens promote governmental integrity?
Holding officials accountable can be politically challenging.