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About this quote

What does it mean?
Ford emphasizes that direct communication between citizens and leaders is essential for a healthy society.
In plain terms
People need to talk directly to their leaders to show society is working well.
What can you take from it?
Open dialogue between leaders and citizens strengthens democracy.

Where it applies

  • political leadership
  • civic engagement

Putting it to work

  • town halls
  • public forums

Questions to consider

  • How accessible are today's leaders to citizens?
  • Is direct contact still possible in modern politics?

Another view

Modern media often replaces direct interaction with filtered messaging.

More from Gerald Ford

  1. Teddy Roosevelt . . . once said, 'Speak softly and carry a big stick.' Jimmy Carter wants to speak loudly and carry a fly swatter.

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  2. The Constitution is the bedrock of all our freedoms; guard and cherish it; keep honor and order in your own house; and the republic will endure.

    Permalink to quote #76
  3. Our inflation, our public enemy number one, will, unless whipped, destroy our country, our homes, our liberties, our property and finally our national pride as…

    Permalink to quote #73

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