ByQuotes

Larry Speakes Quotes

Powerful Larry Speakes for Daily Growth

About Larry Speakes

Larry Speakes (June 30, 1930 – September 5, 1998) was an American journalist, political commentator, and author, best known for his tenure as White House Press Secretary under President Ronald Reagan from 1985 to 1989. Born in Waverly, Tennessee, Speakes graduated with a degree in Political Science from the University of Tennessee in 1953. He served as an officer in the United States Marine Corps Reserve before starting his journalism career at The Tennessean newspaper in Nashville. His reporting took him to Vietnam, where he covered the war for United Press International (UPI) and was awarded a Bronze Star for meritorious service. In 1974, Speakes joined ABC News as a White House correspondent during the Nixon and Ford administrations. He moved to CBS News in 1980, where he served as White House correspondent until his appointment as Press Secretary by President Reagan in 1985. As Press Secretary, Speakes was known for his quick wit and ability to handle difficult press situations with grace and humor. After leaving the White House, Speakes authored several books, including "Thinking About Running" (1990), a memoir of his time in politics, and "The Way Washington Really Works" (1996), which offered insights into the inner workings of the U.S. government. His final book, "Speaking Freely: From Reagan's White House to a More Civil America" (1998), was published posthumously. Speakes died in 1998 at the age of 68 from complications related to lung cancer. He is remembered as a talented journalist, insightful commentator, and dedicated public servant who made significant contributions to American politics and journalism.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"What a town! I've seen the future and it's just a bigger Chicago."

This quote suggests that the speaker finds the city or town they are in to be similar, or even expanded, version of Chicago – a bustling, cosmopolitan metropolis known for its size, diversity, and vibrancy. In essence, it implies that this place is not only big but also carries a familiar charm and energy characteristic of Chicago.

"Let me reassure you that I am not now, nor have I ever been, completely sane."

This quote by Larry Speakes humorously suggests a self-awareness of his own complexities and imperfections, implying he recognizes he is not always rational or logical, but rather human with a mix of both sanity and insanity. This can be a relatable sentiment for many, emphasizing the importance of accepting our flaws as part of our authentic selves.

"We are experiencing a temporary setback."

This quote by Larry Speakes suggests that the situation at hand is currently unfavorable, but it's not a permanent state. Instead, it implies optimism in overcoming challenges as it indicates that things will improve or return to normal after a brief period of difficulty. It's a resilient mindset towards adversity, expressing hope and determination for resolution.

"I think it's fair to say that none of us came here dreaming that we would be engaged in the task that lies before us now."

This quote suggests a sense of reluctance or surprise about the current situation, indicating that the speaker (and likely others) did not anticipate being in their present circumstances when they initially began their journey or responsibilities. It emphasizes the unexpected nature and gravity of the task at hand, as well as a shared feeling among those involved.

"There is no news from Capitol Hill." (This quote was made during a press conference when asked about the Iran-Contra affair)

This quote implies that during a press conference regarding the Iran-Contra affair, which involved secret U.S. government deals with Iran and Nicaraguan Contras, Larry Speakes announced that there was no new information or developments to report about the ongoing investigation or proceedings related to this controversy. Essentially, it means nothing significant or groundbreaking had transpired on Capitol Hill, the center of U.S. political power, in relation to the Iran-Contra affair at that particular moment.

I would dodge, not lie, in the national interest.

- Larry Speakes

National Interest, Would, Dodge

Being a press secretary is like learning to type: You're hunting and pecking for a while and then you find yourself doing the touch system and don't realize it. You're speaking for the president without ever having to go to him.

- Larry Speakes

Learning, Doing, Type, Hunting

You don't tell us how to stage the news and we don't tell you how to cover it.

- Larry Speakes

News, How, Stage, Cover

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.