“I have wondered at times what the Ten Commandments would have looked like if Moses had run them through the US Congress.”
- February 6, 1911 – June 5, 2004
- American
- The 40th President of the United States, Actor, Politician, Governor of California
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Quote
“I have wondered at times what the Ten Commandments would have looked like if Moses had run them through the US Congress.”
Explanation
With this humorous yet pointed remark, Ronald Reagan uses biblical imagery to critique the inefficiency, compromise, and political wrangling often associated with the U.S. legislative process. The implication is that had Moses subjected the Ten Commandments to congressional review, they might have emerged watered down, riddled with exceptions, or buried in procedural delay. It’s a lighthearted way of expressing frustration with bureaucracy and the challenges of getting decisive action from government institutions.
Reagan often used humor to highlight his belief in limited government and to connect with voters skeptical of Washington’s complexity and inertia. This quote captures that sentiment perfectly—it suggests that moral clarity and common sense can be lost in layers of legislation and debate. While he respected the Constitution and democratic process, Reagan frequently argued that government worked best when it acted with principle and efficiency, not endless compromise.
In today’s political climate, the quote remains relevant as a witty critique of gridlock, over-legislation, and the dilution of clear policies through partisan negotiation. It serves as a reminder that leadership requires clarity, conviction, and the courage to stand by foundational truths, even when the political process is slow or convoluted. Reagan’s humor, once again, carries a deeper message: good governance requires not just debate, but decisive moral vision.
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