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We all deserve credit for this new surveillance state that we live in because we the people voted for the Patriot Act. Democrats and Republicans alike....We voted for the people who voted for it, and then voted for the people who reauthorized it, then voted for the people who re-re-authorize d it.
Stephen Colbert
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote highlights the collective responsibility of citizens in creating and maintaining the surveillance state through their voting choices.

Stephen Colbert's quote reflects on the role of the electorate in the establishment of the surveillance state, emphasizing that it is not just the actions of politicians that have led to this situation but also the voters who have repeatedly supported policies and representatives that endorse such practices. It serves as a reminder of the impact of civic engagement and the importance of being informed about the implications of the laws and policies that are enacted.

Themes

SurveillancePatriot ActDemocracyVotingResponsibilityPolitics

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about civil liberties, you can quote Colbert to highlight the importance of voter responsibility.

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