"Power can be very intoxicating and often leads to an abuse of power."
This quote emphasizes the potential dangers inherent in power, suggesting that the intoxicating effect it can have on individuals or entities may lead them to misuse their authority or influence. It's a cautionary reminder that those who wield power should exercise it responsibly, as the temptation to exploit or abuse it can be strong and detrimental to others.
"The Constitution is not a document for the government to read, it's a document for the people to read."
This quote emphasizes that the United States Constitution is not meant only as a set of rules for the government, but rather as an accessible guide for the American people. It signifies that the Constitution serves to protect individual rights, liberty, and democracy by establishing the boundaries within which the government must operate. In essence, it empowers citizens to understand their rights, hold their elected officials accountable, and participate fully in a democratic society.
"Our rights come from nature and God, not from government."
This quote suggests that the fundamental rights people possess are inherent to their existence, granted neither by human institutions nor governments, but rather by nature or a divine entity. In other words, it implies that these rights are universal, pre-existing any political system or governmental decree, and thus deserve protection.
"The right to be heard does not automatically include the right to be taken seriously."
This quote highlights that simply having the opportunity to express one's views (the right to be heard) does not guarantee that those views will be given due consideration or treated as valid (the right to be taken seriously). It suggests that while it is important to provide a platform for diverse opinions, it is also crucial to critically evaluate each argument based on its merits.
"In America, it's not just about winning elections, but upholding the rule of law."
This quote emphasizes that in the United States, democracy extends beyond merely winning elections. It underscores the crucial importance of adhering to the rule of law, which guarantees equality under law, fairness, and respect for legal rights and procedures. In essence, it suggests that upholding the Constitution and democratic principles is as vital as securing political power in America.
People don't realize that the Obama Administration has been, if anything, harder on whistleblowers than the Bush Administration. Part of the reason is that they know that the response will be more muted because the traditional constituency supporting whistleblowers just happen to be the same constituency as Obama's.
- Jonathan Turley
For many, the recent disclosure of massive warrantless surveillance programs of all citizens by the Obama administration has brought back memories of George Orwell's '1984.' Another Orwell book seems more apt as the White House and its allies try to contain the scandal: 'Animal Farm.'
- Jonathan Turley
Truth be known, President Obama has never been particularly driven by principle. Right after his election, I wrote a column in a few days warning people that even though I voted for Obama, he was not what people were describing him to be. I saw him in the Senate. I saw him in Chicago.
- Jonathan Turley
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