Jack Lew Quotes

Powerful Jack Lew for Daily Growth

About Jack Lew

Jack Lew (1955-present) is an American economist, diplomat, and former politician who served as the 76th United States Secretary of State from 2013 to 2017 under President Barack Obama. Born in New York City on February 29, 1955, Lew attended Harvard University, where he earned his Bachelor's degree in government and economics before obtaining a Master's degree in economics from Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar. Lew's career spans across academia, government, and finance. He began his professional journey at the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) during the Carter Administration, where he eventually served as Deputy Director. In the 1980s, he transitioned to the private sector, working for various financial institutions including Citigroup and the American International Group (AIG). Returning to public service in 2006, Lew served as President Obama's Chief of Staff from 2010 to 2013. In this role, he was instrumental in guiding the Affordable Care Act through Congress and managing the federal response to natural disasters such as Hurricane Sandy. In 2013, Lew was appointed as the U.S. Secretary of State, becoming the highest-ranking Jewish official in the history of the U.S. government. In this position, he played a pivotal role in negotiating the Iran Nuclear Deal and the Paris Climate Agreement. After leaving office, Lew returned to academia as a professor at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service. He continues to be an influential voice on economic policy and international relations. Throughout his career, Jack Lew has demonstrated a commitment to public service, diplomacy, and the pursuit of knowledge, leaving a lasting impact on American politics and beyond.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The dollar is our currency, but it's your problem."

This quote by Jack Lew suggests that while the U.S. dollar serves as a global reserve currency, the implications and potential impacts on other nations due to decisions regarding its value or monetary policies are primarily their responsibilities. Essentially, he is emphasizing the interconnectedness of global economies, with the United States having a significant role, but not absolving itself from the consequences of its actions on the international stage.


"It's important for us to build a global economy that delivers real and sustainable growth."

This quote by Jack Lew emphasizes the importance of fostering an international economic system that generates consistent, long-term expansion while ensuring its growth is both real (tangible and measurable) and sustainable (capable of being maintained at a certain rate or level over a period of time). In other words, it's about creating an economy that grows steadily without depleting resources or compromising the well-being of future generations.


"Economic policy is about choices."

This quote by Jack Lew emphasizes that economic policy-making is not a matter of automatic responses or a one-size-fits-all approach, but rather a series of conscious decisions based on priorities and values. It suggests that every choice made in economic policy has consequences, and those choices are often about balancing competing demands such as growth, equity, and stability. In essence, it underscores the idea that the shaping of an economy is not a passive process, but an active one where decisions matter deeply.


"I think the American dream means having the ability to achieve your potential no matter where you start out in life."

The American Dream, as envisioned by Jack Lew, signifies an opportunity for all individuals, regardless of their initial circumstances, to reach their full potential through hard work and determination. In essence, it embodies the idea that anyone can rise above their starting point in life and succeed if given the chance, emphasizing equality of opportunity rather than equality of outcome.


"A strong U.S. economy benefits the world, and a strong global economy benefits us."

This quote emphasizes the interconnectedness of the global economy, suggesting that the strength and prosperity of the United States' economy has a positive ripple effect on the rest of the world. Similarly, a robust global economy is beneficial for the U.S., as economic growth and stability in other countries contribute to increased trade, investment opportunities, and overall international cooperation. In essence, it highlights that national economies are not isolated entities, but rather interdependent parts of an integrated global system.


I think there's no higher calling in terms of a career than public service, which is a chance to make a difference in people's lives and improve the world.

- Jack Lew

Career, Think, Which, Calling

I've been really privileged to work for two presidents - President Obama and President Clinton - who are both people of faith, who value faith, and who respect that others have the same feelings in their own lives.

- Jack Lew

Own, Been, President Clinton, Feelings

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