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About this quote

What does it mean?
Truman suggests that claiming bipartisanship often masks an intention to oppose the speaker.
In plain terms
People who say they are bipartisan may actually plan to vote against you.
What can you take from it?
Be wary of those who claim neutrality in politics.

Where it applies

  • political campaigns
  • voting decisions
  • legislative sessions

Putting it to work

  • assess political opponents
  • interpret political rhetoric

Questions to consider

  • How do you interpret claims of bipartisanship?
  • When does neutrality signal opposition?

Another view

The quote assumes bipartisanship always implies opposition.

More from Harry S. Truman

  1. The job of the Vice President is to go to weddings and funerals.

    Permalink to quote #45
  2. Always be sincere, even if you don't mean it.

    Permalink to quote #47
  3. My choice early in life was either to be a piano-player in a whorehouse or a politician. And to tell the truth, there's hardly any difference.

    Permalink to quote #44

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