Forget Quote by John C. Calhoun
“We ought not to forget that the government, through all its departments, judicial as well as others, is administered by delegated and responsible agents; and that the power which really controls, ultimately, all the movements, is not in the agents, but those who elect or appoint them.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Senate Address, 1845, United States
Power ultimately resides with those who choose officials, not with the officials themselves.
In simple terms: Citizens control government through elections.
Key Takeaway
Elect responsibly.
Themes
politics
authority
representation
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
political
historical
When to use this quote
- voting
- public office
- policy implementation
- accountability
Key Concepts
delegated responsibility
electoral power
Questions to Reflect On
- How can voters ensure accountability?
- What mechanisms limit bureaucratic power?
A Different Perspective
Elected officials can act autonomously despite voter intent.
