top of page
.png){kind=small}
"If the staff lacks policy guidance against which to test decisions, their decisions will be random."
Standard
Customized
Exlpore more Policy quotes
"We cannot be any stronger in our foreign policy for all the bombs and guns we may heap up in our arsenals than we are in the spirit which rules inside the country. Foreign policy, like a river, cannot rise above its source."
"So, I'm lying on the couch and Laura walks in and I say, 'Free at last,' and she says 'You're free all right, you're free to do the dishes.' So I say, 'You're talking to the former president, baby,' and she said, 'consider this your new domestic policy agenda.'"
"The one who adapts his policy to the times prospers, and likewise that the one whose policy clashes with the demands of the times does not."
"That means following a very restrictive fiscal and monetary policy which will squeeze the monopolies and cut their subsidies. On the micro level we will allow other economic agents, both domestic and foreign, to compete with them."
"In the first place, when there is a policy of intentional aggression, inspired by a desire to get possession of the territory or the trade of another country, right or wrong, a pretext is always sought."
"It is my view that we cannot conduct foreign policy at the extremes."
"Well I've already made it clear that it's a matter for individuals in exercising their own judgement, their own consciences to speak freely on matters of policy."
"The Times' new credibility committee report that was issued on Monday very specifically said they will be putting in a policy that reporters must get permission from their department heads to appear on television, which I think is a really good thing."
Explore more quotes by Donald Rumsfeld
"When asked for your views, by the press or others, remember that what they really want to know is the President's views."
"The price of being close to the President is delivering bad news. You fail him if you don't tell him the truth. Others won't do it."
"Enjoy your time in public service. It may well be one of the most interesting and challenging times of your life."
"See that the President, the Cabinet and staff are informed. If cut out of the information flow, their decisions may be poor, not made, or not confidently or persuasively implemented."
"Imagine, a September 11 with weapons of mass destruction. It's not 3,000. It's tens of thousands of innocent men, women and children."
"Visit with your predecessors from previous Administrations. They know the ropes and can help you see around some corners. Try to make original mistakes, rather than needlessly repeating theirs."
"Presidential leadership needn't always cost money. Look for low- and no-cost options. They can be surprisingly effective."
"Reduce the number of lawyers. They are like beavers - they get in the middle of the stream and dam it up."
"Secretary Powell and I agree on every single issue that has ever been before this administration except for those instances where Colin's still learning."
bottom of page