Inside 84045

Posted By Mike Kieffer on October 13, 2009

Question 8: What is your favorite US Founding Father quote?

Jeff Francom – Mayor

“Give me liberty or give me death.” Patrick Henry

Mia Love – Mayor

Our Founding Fathers were such wise men. It is extremely difficult to pick a favorite. I ask that you allow me at least two.

“A rigid economy of the public contributions and absolute interdiction of all useless expenses will go far towards keeping the government honest and unoppressive”.
Thomas Jefferson, letter to Lafayette, 1823

It is on great occasions only, and after time has been given for cool and deliberate reflection, that the real voice of the people can be known.
George Washington, letter to Edward Carrington, May 1, 1796

Michael McOmber – City Council Member

“Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!” -Patrick Henry

Jim Miller – City Council Member

But a Constitution of Government once changed from Freedom, can never be restored. Liberty, once lost, is lost forever. –John Adams

Michael Simpson – City Council Member

A general dissolution of principles and manners will more surely overthrow the liberties of America than the whole force of the common enemy. While the people are virtuous they cannot be subdued; but when once they lose their virtue then will be ready to surrender their liberties to the first external or internal invader.
Samuel Adams, letter to James Warren, February 12, 1779

It is really hard to pick “my favorite” founding father quote because there are so many worthy quotes that trade-off being my favorite depending upon the circumstances of the time. This is definitely one of my favorite founding father quotes because it speaks of the origin of America’s strength. I firmly believe that America has prospered and has become great because we were blessed by God. I believe this land is a sacred and chosen land that will allow those who serve God to prosper.

Along with mentioning the strengths of America it warns of America’s one weakness, and that is that the blessings that made us the great nation we are will be revoked if we allow ourselves to loose our virtue. One great example is our Constitution. The Constitution was a document inspired by God for the good of man. Speaking of the Constitution, John Adams said, “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people it is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.” The constitution has kept us a free people and will continue to do so as long as we remain a moral and religious people.

Cecil Tuley – City Council Member

James Madison, “To suppose that any form of government will secure liberty or happiness without any virtue in the people is a chimerical (fanciful) idea.”

NOTE: Next question: What do you believe the place of the US Constitution is in local government?

I am not editing any of the responses. They are being posted as I received them from the candidates.

Categories: Elections 2009
Tags: candidate questions, election 2009