“We should measure welfare’s success by how many people leave welfare, not by how many are added.”
- February 6, 1911 – June 5, 2004
- American
- The 40th President of the United States, Actor, Politician, Governor of California
table of contents
Quote
“We should measure welfare’s success by how many people leave welfare, not by how many are added.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Ronald Reagan’s belief that the ultimate goal of welfare programs should be self-sufficiency, not dependency. By stating that success is measured by how many people leave welfare, he emphasizes empowerment over enrollment. Reagan is arguing that welfare should be a temporary support system, not a permanent way of life, and that true effectiveness lies in helping individuals become economically independent.
During the 1980s, Reagan frequently criticized what he viewed as the expansion of the welfare state, arguing that it created disincentives to work and personal responsibility. His administration promoted policies aimed at reducing welfare rolls, encouraging employment, and reforming entitlement programs. This quote encapsulates a core part of his domestic agenda: the belief that government aid should be a bridge—not a destination—for those in need.
In today’s policy debates, Reagan’s quote remains highly relevant. Discussions about welfare reform, universal basic income, and social safety nets continue to weigh the balance between providing assistance and promoting independence. The quote challenges policymakers to ensure that welfare programs uplift and transition recipients, rather than simply expanding coverage. It serves as a reminder that the measure of compassion lies not in how much is given, but in how much is ultimately no longer needed.
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