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Causes Quote by Thomas Jefferson

“My principles, and those always received by the republicans, do not admit to removing any person from office merely for a difference of political opinion. Malversations in office, and the exerting of official influence to control the freedom of election are good causes for removal.” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“My principles, and those always received by the republicans, do not admit to removing any person from office merely for a difference of political opinion. Malversations in office, and the exerting of official influence to control the freedom of election are good causes for removal.”

Thomas Jefferson

About This Quote

Source Speech: Letter to James Madison, 1798

Political office should be removed only for misconduct, not for differing opinions.

In simple terms: Remove officials only for wrongdoing.

Key Takeaway

Uphold fairness in governance.

Themes

politics ethics accountability

Mood

serious reflective

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • legislative oversight
  • public office
  • election integrity

Key Concepts

misconduct political tolerance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we balance dissent with accountability?
  • What safeguards prevent abuse of removal powers?
A Different Perspective

Political disagreements can be hard to separate from misconduct.

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