Everything that happens today is like something in the past, but it's also unlike things in the past. We never know until an event happens if it's the similarities or differences that matter more.
H. W. BrandsRead
Presidents are evaluated not by what they did by the stroke of their own pen; it's what they persuade Congress to do.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Presidential effectiveness is measured by their ability to influence Congress rather than their individual actions.
This quote highlights the importance of collaboration and persuasion in leadership, particularly in the context of a president's ability to enact policies. It suggests that a president's legacy is shaped more by their skill in working with Congress and garnering support for legislation than by any unilateral decisions they make.
Themes
LeadershipPersuasionCongressInfluencePolicy
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion on the effectiveness of political leaders during a seminar.
More from H. W. Brands
All quotes βWhen you look at the development of the American presidency, you see that the presidents who have had the greatest impact are the ones who fit their times most successfully.
H. W. BrandsRead
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