George J. Mitchell Quotes

Discussion is the bedrock of American democracy.

I trust the American people. They almost always get it right …

As long as we're in a democracy, I have to give what I think the majority of people will enjoy.

Democracy is more than just election day.

In a democracy, as a matter of course, every effort is made to seize upon and create publick opinion, which is, substantially, securing power.

In a Democracy, look how many … many powerful Orators there are with the people.

In democracies the people seem to act as they please.

If we could, somehow, get a vote of the people of Tennessee and have it result properly, it would be worth more to us than a battle gained. How long before we can get such a vote?

… a permanent Council of the ablest men chosen by the people

We are a democracy and I will go with the 51 percent wherever that leads us.

I’m not allergic to democracy. The only advice I have is let’s give it a different name and keep doing it.

We have submitted the issues to the American people, and their word is law.

In a democracy, if you don't get the votes, nothing else is possible, no matter how wonderful your dreams.

I think it's the height of patriotism to continue to exercise your right as a citizen and to hold your government to account. Isn't that what the very essence of democracy is about?

Decision making in a democracy depends above all on knowledge and not just the intel available to presidents and policymakers.

I believe in the greatness of our democracy.

Our history is that we can very aggressively, if necessary, and openly and democratically discuss our differences. We have a democratic history in which we come together and vote on these things.

I like the noise of democracy.

Let's say there are 500 sons and daughters like you in each state. Then we could control the government.

Democracy consists of choosing your dictators, after they've told you what you think it is you want to hear.

I think the American people should express their preferences, and we'll accept their choice.

If we are to take for the criterion of truth the majority of suffrages, they ought to be gotten from those philosophic and patriotic citizens who cultivate their reason.

Deliberation and debate is the way you stir the soul of our democracy.

Voting is the foundational act that breathes life into the principle of the consent of the governed.

One person alone can't do anything as important as bringing genuine democracy to a country.