Willie Herenton Quotes

We don’t trust government, but we need government….Government didn’t land here from Mars. We elected them.

Somebody is going to be making the laws for this entire country. It could be you. Will it be you?

It's not really the job of a public servant to inspire, but to get the job that the people demand done. The Democrats think that if they have hope and are inspired, things will get better, but they actually won't.

I simply want to do what I can to have the best Congress possible representing the American people.

My family has been in politics a long time in Los Angeles. We very much believe we are elected to represent the people. I mean, I am to give voice to, you know, the over half a million people I represent in my congressional district. I mean, that's the way it works.

I am especially proud of taking on issues most central to the health of our American democracy.

The Election Assistance Commission represents a major, unprecedented commitment from the federal government to sustained freedom and vibrant democracy. I am humbled by the prospect of being one its charter members.

A government as good as the people.

Democracy is much too important to be left to public opinion.

No, I look at the senators and pray for the country!

If the Congress fails then American democracy is dysfunctional.

We can build a better, more representative democracy through technology and ensure what Abraham Lincoln called the last, best hope for Earth will endure past the 21st Century.

We have a lot of thoughtful people in the U.S. Senate.

The point is, is that when you elect a politician, it has nothing to do with their personality. Politicians perform a function, a role in government. And the role of city government is not one that serves the people, unless the people make them do what the people want.

I've always felt like in a democracy - this is how I was raised - that as a citizen, it's your duty to work hard for the agenda of the country.

We want to strengthen democracy.

The government's intention is to function, to have debates in Parliament, and to work in the interest of the people.

Government is not a game show, though at times it is amusing and entertaining to watch.

I can be unhappy with the Congress, but I cannot give up on its ideology.

Democratic government is difficult. It is much more difficult than populists claim. It's not like running a business or a police force. It demands compromise.

I love working for the people of Indiana. I love helping our citizens make the most of their lives, but I do not love Congress.

I was a very, very good congressman.

I enjoyed my stay in the Congress. Most people do not. And too many people who have been elected really don't understand the nature of government.

I very, very much want to be involved in helping those senators, congressmen, and women who support the principles that made America great.

No matter where you stand politically - even if you're unsure of what your political ideology is - it is important to take part in the process of shaping our government.