There is not a man in the country that can't make a living…
“There is not a man in the country that can't make a living for himself and family. But he can't make a living for them and his government, too, the way his government is living. What the government has got to do is live as cheap as the people”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public address, early 20th century, null
Critiques government extravagance compared to citizens' modest living standards.
In simple terms: Government should live as cheaply as its people.
Key Takeaway
Advocate fiscal restraint.
Themes
economics
government
inequality
living standards
Mood
cautious
concerned
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- budget planning
- public budgeting
- policy debate
Key Concepts
public policy
taxation
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- What policies could reduce government waste?
- How can citizens influence fiscal policy?
A Different Perspective
Complexities of public services may require higher spending.