John Linder Quotes

Governing is hard. If you’re in the majority, you’ve got to do the hard work of governing

I think that shows a level of maturity and understanding that I think bodes well for getting to the bottom of this. But it is really up to you and your staff, on behalf of the American people, to take on that challenge.

Now I know how Jack feels when he has told three people that they can each be Secretary of State.

It's so much easier to throw rocks than it is to govern.

In no relationship at the top of any walk of life is it always easy, least of all in politics which matters so much and which is conducted in such a piercing spotlight.

I use that as my responsibility on the show, to be the pragmatist.

I don't think I have the demeanor to be a politician. I'm used to making decisions and to a certain extent being in charge.

The rule for effective governance is simple. It is one Ronald Reagan knew by heart. And one that he successfully employed with Social Security and the Cold War. When there is a problem, you fix it. That is the job you have been sent to do and you cannot wait for someone else to do it for you.

Between an uncontrolled escalation and passivity, there is a demanding road of responsibility that we must follow.

One can say that three pre-eminent qualities are decisive for the politician: passion, a feeling of responsibility, and a sense of proportion.

He [President Warren G. Harding] is a kind, companionable fellow to go with on a fishing expedition or to play cards with; but he is not the man to have as President or leader.

Today, as an independent, an entrepreneur, and a former mayor, I believe we need a president who is a problem solver, not a bomb thrower. Someone who can bring members of Congress together to get things done. And I know Hillary Clinton can do that because I saw it firsthand.

No matter what you may think about her politics or her record, Hillary Clinton understands that this is not reality television; this is reality. She understands the job of president. It involves finding solutions, not pointing fingers; and offering hope, not stoking fear.

You have to make some hard decisions when you're speaker.

To rule is easy, to govern difficult.

A prime minister has to keep a certain balance when dealing with sensitive issues.

To govern is to choose. To appear to be unable to choose is to appear to be unable to govern.

Politicians can't manage. All they can do is talk.

The art of politics is knowing what to do next.

As a member of Congress, I'm often reminded that in baseball, as in diplomacy, you have to know when to hit, when to run, and when to show grace.

I worked with a group of people who argued day and night - professors, officials, the Minister of Finance - but there were decisions that I had to make.

I'm not a professional politician, I'm a problem solver.

One of the sad truths about leadership is that, the higher up the ladder you travel, the less you know.

A statesman cannot afford to be a moralist.

Guidelines for bureaucrats: (1) When in charge, ponder. (2) When in trouble, delegate. (3) When in doubt, mumble.