When you see all that rhetorical smoke billowing up from the Democrats, well ladies and gentleman, I'd follow the example of their nominee; don't inhale.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Reagan advises listeners to ignore inflammatory political rhetoric from opponents rather than engaging with it.
- In plain terms
- He tells people not to get caught up in the Democrats' angry speech.
- What can you take from it?
- Ignore political noise to stay focused on substantive issues.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is it appropriate to ignore political rhetoric?
- Does ignoring opponents help or hurt democratic debate?
Another view
It dismisses valid political critique simply by labeling it as smoke.
More from Ronald Reagan
I know in my heart that man is good. That what is right will always eventually triumph. And there's purpose and worth to each and every life.
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