Lawrence Eagleburger Quotes

I have solemnly renounced all political power. I shall never reassume it – never – even should the votes of the nation seek to restore me to it. This I have publicly declared and I do not go back on my word.

…it has fallen to you to do a dirty job which your predecessors ought to have done before you.

I’m an elected official so I can talk at any time or any place, light or dark.

A public official must feel that he is a servant of the people. This is true of all public officials but perhaps in a special sense true of the Secretary of State, for our party lines stop at the water’s edge.

Public officers are the trustees of the people.

The trust that goes with public service is a heavy burden on those who would lead us.

All persons who take part in government are accountable for their actions.

I am not a perfect servant. I am a public servant doing my best against the odds.

People always say it is carefree leaving officialdom, but actually they do want to keep the position.

Working in the White House is a relentlessly demanding responsibility.

I have an obligation to the people of Illinois, to the Senate and to myself to leave the Senate while I am still eager to serve, not after I tire of serving.

Let men in office substitute the midnight oil for the limelight.

One of the nice things about no longer being Secretary of State is that I can actually answer your questions.

There are two supreme pleasures in life. One is ideal, the other real. The ideal is when a man receives the seals of office from the hands of his Sovereign. The real pleasure comes when he hands them back.

I now read the newspaper each day and say “Isn’t that interesting” and then go on to other things because I no longer have the responsibility.

I'm not a reporter, so I get to say whatever - and then I'll get called into the office.

I’ve learned that governing is more difficult than criticizing.

Well gentlemen, today we are going to earn our pay.

It is Ordered, sentenced, and decreed, that no person be chosen Governor above once in two years

Those who do not serve the public interest should not hold a public license.

I am the only public servant and the only Mexican President ever who has made his finances public from before, during, and after public service.

People hold elected officials to a higher ethical standard than most others.

This country, our tradition, permits you to be a bigot, but it also requires you to take responsibility for your bigotry. The fact that you could hide behind a mask allows you to be a bigot without being responsible.

I regard office as not an end but an opportunity.

[Impeachment is a] method of national inquest into the conduct of public men.