“A lot of people like a lot of money. They shouldn’t go into politics.”
- May 20, 1935 – May 13, 2025
- Uruguayan
- Politician, Former President of Uruguay, Former Guerrilla Fighter, Advocate for Simple Living
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Quote
“A lot of people like a lot of money. They shouldn’t go into politics.”
Explanation
In this quote, José Mujica draws a sharp line between the pursuit of wealth and the responsibilities of public service, asserting that those primarily motivated by money are fundamentally unfit for political life. His message is rooted in the belief that politics should be an act of service, not self-enrichment, and that leaders who crave personal gain undermine the integrity and purpose of democratic institutions.
By stating plainly that such individuals “shouldn’t go into politics,” Mujica criticizes a widespread trend where political office becomes a vehicle for accumulation—of wealth, power, and privilege—rather than a platform for advancing the public good. His own austere lifestyle, marked by humility and self-sacrifice, gave weight to his words. For Mujica, authentic political leadership demands ethical discipline, not greed.
In the context of global concerns over corruption, inequality, and loss of public trust, this quote is a timely reminder that democracy depends on leaders who value justice over personal profit. Mujica’s statement is not just a critique—it is a call to uphold moral character and civic responsibility as the foundation of politics, where ambition must serve others, not oneself.
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