If Elected I Will Not Serve Quote
Introduction
"If elected I will not serve" is a famous quote that has been used by politicians and public figures for decades. The quote has been attributed to many people, including Richard M. Nixon, William Tecumseh Sherman, and even Mark Twain. But what does the quote really mean? In this article, we will take a closer look at the origins of the quote, its meaning, and its significance.
The Origins of the Quote
The origins of the quote are somewhat murky. Some sources attribute it to Richard M. Nixon, who supposedly said it during his unsuccessful bid for Governor of California in 1962. Others attribute it to William Tecumseh Sherman, who supposedly said it in response to a question about running for President in 1884. And still others attribute it to Mark Twain, who supposedly said it in a letter to a friend in 1875.
The Meaning of the Quote
Regardless of who said it first, the meaning of the quote is clear: the speaker is saying that they do not want to be elected to the position in question. This could be for a variety of reasons. Perhaps the speaker does not feel qualified for the job, or does not want the responsibility that comes with it. Or perhaps the speaker is making a statement about the political system as a whole, and is refusing to participate in it.
The Significance of the Quote
The significance of the quote lies in its ability to capture a sentiment that many people feel about politics and public service. It is a statement of humility and self-awareness, acknowledging that not everyone is cut out for public office. It is also a statement of protest, a refusal to participate in a system that many people feel is corrupt or ineffective.
Examples of the Quote
Over the years, many politicians and public figures have used variations of the "if elected I will not serve" quote. Some have used it as a way to deflect questions about their political ambitions, while others have used it as a way to make a statement about their values. Here are a few examples:
- Richard M. Nixon: "If I were to run, I would run as a Republican. And if I were to be elected, I would not serve."
- William Tecumseh Sherman: "If nominated, I will not run; if elected, I will not serve."
- Mark Twain: "If the nomination could be conferred on me, I would not accept it. The reasons are numerous."
Conclusion
The "if elected I will not serve" quote is a powerful statement that captures a sentiment that many people feel about politics and public service. It is a statement of humility, self-awareness, and protest, and it has been used by politicians and public figures for decades. While its origins may be murky, its meaning and significance are clear.