I do not want to see the Republican party ride to political victory on the Four Horsemen of Calumny-fear, ignorance, bigotry and smear.
Margaret Chase SmithRead
The Senate has been debased to the level of a forum of hate and character assassination sheltered by the shield of congressional immunity.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote criticizes the Senate for devolving into a space where hatred and personal attacks thrive under the protection of congressional immunity.
Margaret Chase Smith's quote reflects her profound disillusionment with the political climate within the Senate, suggesting that it has become a venue where decorum and constructive debate have been replaced by animosity and personal attacks. The mention of 'congressional immunity' implies that these behaviors are enabled by the protections that allow senators to speak without fear of retribution, highlighting concerns about accountability in political discourse.
Themes
SenatePoliticsHateCharacter AssassinationImmunity
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech addressing political reform, one might quote this to highlight the need for civility in politics.
More from Margaret Chase Smith
All quotes βOne of the basic causes for all the trouble in the world today is that people talk too much and think too little. They act impulsively without thinking. I always try to think before I talk.
Margaret Chase SmithRead
Smears are not only to be expected but fought. Honor is to be earned, not bought.
Margaret Chase SmithRead
Every human being is entitled to courtesy and consideration. Constructive criticism is not only to be expected but sought.
Margaret Chase SmithRead
Moral cowardice that keeps us from speaking our minds is as dangerous to this country as irresponsible talk.
Margaret Chase SmithRead
Greatness is not manifested by unlimited pragmatism, which places such a high premium on the end justifying any means and any methods
Margaret Chase SmithRead
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