Adopted Quote by St. George Tucker
“That provision in the constitution which requires that the president shall be a native-born citizen (unless he were a citizen of the United States when the constitution was adopted,) is a happy means of security against foreign influence, which, where-ever it is capable of being exerted, is to be dreaded more than the plague.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Discourse on the Constitution, 1795
The clause ensures the president is native‑born to protect national sovereignty from foreign meddling.
In simple terms: Native‑born rule guards against foreign control.
Key Takeaway
Support native‑born requirements for high office.
Themes
national security
sovereignty
constitutional law
Mood
cautious
protective
Type
legal
political
When to use this quote
- election campaigns
- constitutional debates
- policy drafting
Key Concepts
citizenship
foreign influence
political stability
Questions to Reflect On
- Is citizenship a sufficient safeguard against foreign influence?
- How does this compare to other nations' requirements?
A Different Perspective
May limit qualified talent from naturalized citizens.
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