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As an American, I condemn a Republican 'Fascist' just as much as I condemn a Democrat 'Communist.' I condemn a Democrat 'Fascist' just as much as I condemn a Republican 'Communist.' They are equally dangerous to you and me and to our country. As an American, I want to see our nation recapture the strength and unity it once had when we fought the enemy instead of ourselves.

Margaret Chase Smith#12

PoliticsPatriotismDemocracyExtremismUnity

About this quote

What does it mean?
Extremists from any party are equally dangerous. The nation needs unity and strength rather than internal conflict.
In plain terms
Hate from any side is dangerous; we need unity.
What can you take from it?
Avoid labeling opponents as enemies; focus on shared country.

Where it applies

  • political divisions
  • national crises
  • civic discourse

Putting it to work

  • unite against extremism
  • focus on shared goals
  • reject labels

Questions to consider

  • Who threatens the country more: enemies or fellow citizens?
  • How do we rebuild national strength?

Another view

Partisan loyalty sometimes overrides concern for national safety.

More from Margaret Chase Smith

  1. As a United States Senator, I am not proud of the way in which the Senate has been made a publicity platform for irresponsible sensationalism. I am not proud o…

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  2. We are Republicans. But we are Americans first. It is as Americans that we express our concern with the growing confusion that threatens the security and stabi…

    Permalink to quote #13
  3. I don't believe the American people will uphold any political party that puts political exploitation above national interest. Surely we Republicans aren't that…

    Permalink to quote #10

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