“Any man who wants to be president is either an egomaniac or crazy.”
- October 14, 1890 – March 28, 1969
- American
- The 34th President of the United States, General, Military Leader
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Quote
“Any man who wants to be president is either an egomaniac or crazy.”
Explanation
This quote, widely attributed to Eisenhower, captures a cynical yet insightful view of the psychological demands and ambitions involved in seeking the U.S. presidency. Whether Eisenhower actually said this remains debated, as no definitive source confirms it. However, the sentiment aligns with his reluctance to enter politics—he was a career military man who had to be heavily persuaded to run for office.
If taken as reflective of Eisenhower’s perspective, the quote suggests that the sheer magnitude of responsibility, scrutiny, and pressure attached to the presidency is so daunting that a desire to seek it might stem from either overwhelming self-confidence (egomania) or a form of irrationality (craziness). The implication is that ambition for power at this level can be inherently suspect, raising questions about a candidate’s motivations and emotional balance.
Even today, the quote resonates amid public skepticism toward political figures. The idea that someone would willingly subject themselves to relentless media scrutiny, endless criticism, and decisions of profound consequence can appear either heroic or delusional. Whether used in jest or as a critique, the quote invites reflection on the paradox of leadership: that the people best suited for power may be those least eager to claim it.
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