The only thing that saves us from bureaucracy is its inefficiency.

The difference between Carter and [Ted] Kennedy: Carter has this vague religion which he believes in strongly, while Kennedy has this strong religion which he believes in vaguely.

Never say anything in a national campaign that anyone might remember.

As long as the differences and diversities of mankind exist, democracy must allow for compromise, for accommodation, and for the recognition of differences.

Whatever is morally necessary must be made politically possible.

The Senate is the last primitive society in the world. We still worship the elders of the tribe and honor the territorial imperative.

There is a long-standing tradition in America of scoffing at poets, especially if they show any interest in politics.