George Voinovich Quotes

Powerful George Voinovich for Daily Growth

About George Voinovich

George Voinovich (born May 14, 1936) is an American politician, attorney, and author who served as Mayor of Cleveland from 1979 to 1989, a U.S. Senator representing Ohio from 1999 to 2007, and the 65th Governor of Ohio from 1995 to 1999. Born in Cleveland, Voinovich was raised by his grandparents after his parents died when he was young. He graduated from St. Edward High School and later earned a Bachelor's degree from Kent State University and a law degree from Capital University Law School. His political career began in 1971 when he was elected to the Cleveland City Council. Voinovich is noted for his significant contributions to Ohio and national politics. As Mayor of Cleveland, he implemented reforms that improved the city's financial standing and quality of life. As Governor, he pushed through major tax cuts and education reforms. In the Senate, he was a key figure in the passage of the No Child Left Behind Act. Voinovich is also an accomplished author. His book "The Front Porch: Lessons from the Real World of American Politics" offers insights into his political philosophy and experiences. The book highlights his belief in bipartisanship, pragmatism, and a commitment to improving people's lives. Voinovich's life and work reflect a deep dedication to public service and a practical, solution-oriented approach to politics. His legacy continues to influence American politics today, particularly in his home state of Ohio and beyond.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"In politics, you learn to compromise, but never on principles."

George Voinovich's quote emphasizes that while politics necessitates negotiation and finding common ground (compromise), core principles should not be sacrificed in the process. In other words, one should maintain unwavering commitment to their values or beliefs even when faced with political pressures to concede. This stance underscores the importance of integrity in decision-making within politics.


"I believe that the American people expect and deserve a government that lives within its means."

This quote by George Voinovich emphasizes the idea that the U.S. citizens anticipate and require a government that operates responsibly, adhering to fiscal discipline and avoiding excessive spending. It suggests a belief in prudent financial management and transparency within the government, ensuring it functions efficiently without overspending or accumulating unnecessary debt. The quote underscores the value of fiscal responsibility as a fundamental principle for public trust and confidence.


"To be successful in public life, you must understand what it is like to fail."

This quote by George Voinovich emphasizes the importance of experiencing failure as a crucial step towards achieving success in public or professional life. The idea is that understanding the feeling and lessons from failure equips individuals with valuable insights, resilience, and the wisdom necessary to make informed decisions and ultimately succeed. In other words, failure isn't an end but a stepping stone on the path to success.


"The power of government lies not in building more buildings, but in opening more doors to opportunity."

This quote highlights that the true power of government resides not only in constructing physical infrastructure like buildings, but primarily in creating opportunities for people. The "doors" symbolize avenues to growth, development, and advancement, whether they are educational, economic, or social. By opening these doors, the government enables individuals to fully realize their potential, fostering a society that is vibrant, equitable, and prosperous.


"I don't believe in the politics of personal destruction. I believe in the politics of personal responsibility and individual integrity."

This quote by George Voinovich highlights his belief in a political approach that emphasizes accountability, honesty, and self-reliance over negative tactics like character assassination or defaming opponents (politics of personal destruction). Instead, he advocates for a style of politics focused on promoting personal responsibility and maintaining one's integrity as an individual, which are essential values to foster trust and cooperation in the political landscape.


Liberating Iraq from a legacy of violence and putting it on the path to peace and prosperity will take time.

- George Voinovich

Path, Legacy, Take, Liberating

It is time to recognize a simple fact of life. Contrary to what some of my colleagues seem to believe, tax cuts do not pay for themselves.

- George Voinovich

Fact, Some, Pay, Cuts

I do not want our children and grandchildren to live in a world where everyday they fear some regional strongman with weapons of mass destruction. We need to send a message to these future would-be bullies: you will not be allowed to threaten the world.

- George Voinovich

Some, Regional, Allowed, Weapons

I want to make it clear publicly that I expect more candor from this Administration during the next four years, particularly with members on the Foreign Relations Committee so that we can maintain a bipartisan foreign policy.

- George Voinovich

Next, Candor, Administration, Relations

I don't give a damn about the stock market. But I do care about jobs.

- George Voinovich

Give, Damn, Market, Stock

I don't understand why people in this country are so bent on doing the 'perfect', when you have something that is good and makes sense from a cost-benefit point of view.

- George Voinovich

Doing, Country, Perfect, Bent

The economy is showing encouraging signs of recovery.

- George Voinovich

Economy, Signs, Encouraging, Showing

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