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Compromise Quote by Tom DeLay

“It is not the principled partisan, however obnoxious he may seem to his opponents, who degrades our public debate, but the preening, self-styled statesman who elevates compromise to a first principle.” quote by Tom DeLay
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“It is not the principled partisan, however obnoxious he may seem to his opponents, who degrades our public debate, but the preening, self-styled statesman who elevates compromise to a first principle.”

Tom DeLay

About This Quote

Source Interview: Discussion on political compromise, 2022

The quote warns that self‑styled statesmen who elevate compromise as a principle can degrade debate more than partisan opponents.

In simple terms: Compromise can be used to mask self‑interest.

Key Takeaway

Scrutinize claims of principled compromise.

Themes

politics compromise integrity

Mood

skeptical analytical

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • legislative negotiations
  • party meetings
  • policy drafting

Key Concepts

political philosophy public discourse

Questions to Reflect On

  • What signs indicate genuine compromise?
  • How does self‑promotion affect public trust?
A Different Perspective

Compromise may hide ulterior motives.

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