When I wrote 'The West Wing,' the juice behind it was that in popular culture, our leaders in government are generally portrayed as Machiavellian, or as idiots. I thought, well, how about writing about a group of hyper-competent people?
Copy QuoteThe best argument against democracy is a five-minute conversation with the average voter.
Copy Quote View & ShareGovernment, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state, an intolerable one.
Copy Quote View & ShareGoverning a great nation is like cooking a small fish - too much handling will spoil it.
Copy Quote View & ShareFor in reason, all government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery.
Copy Quote View & ShareI'd rather entrust the government of the United States to the first 400 people listed in the Boston telephone directory than to the faculty of Harvard University.
Copy Quote View & ShareGovernment's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it.
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