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Wes Clark is a man of whom you can ask a question, and he will look you directly in the eye, and give you the most truthful and complete answer you can imagine. You will know the absolute truth of the statement as well as the thought process behind the answer. You will have no doubt as to the intellect of the speaker and meaning of the answer to this question....So you can see, as a politician, he has a lot to learn.

Wesley Clark#37

Attribution disputed; shown as originally published.

PoliticsLeadershipIntegrity

About this quote

What does it mean?
The speaker praises Wesley Clark for his truthfulness and intellect but notes he has much to learn as a politician.
In plain terms
Wesley Clark is truthful and intelligent, but he needs to learn more about politics.
What can you take from it?
Integrity and intellect are assets but do not replace political acumen.

Where it applies

  • political evaluation
  • leadership endorsements

Putting it to work

  • value honesty in candidates
  • identify learning gaps

Questions to consider

  • What qualities make a good politician?
  • Can honesty compensate for experience?

Another view

Being truthful does not guarantee political effectiveness or strategy.

More from Wesley Clark

  1. Professional and moral attributes are impeccable.

    Permalink to quote #36
  2. Wes Clark has the character and depth to be another Marshall or Eisenhower in time of war.

    Permalink to quote #38
  3. I've never endorsed a presidential candidate before. But when I talk to General Clark, and when I listen to him, I can see him as a president for all Americans.

    Permalink to quote #35

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