Quotes of the Day - Thomas Jefferson

I am continually struck by how much of what our founders opposed in the governance of King George III is present today in our federal system. One can only wonder what our founders would say were they to see how far awry their 'grand experiement' has gone from their hopes and intentions.

So, as many head out to do Christmas shopping and others seek to recouperate from turkey, ham and dressing, or continue to celebrate their win/drown their sorrows over the football games, here are three quotes from Thomas Jefferson to consider in relation to our present government.

"I do verily believe that if the principle were to prevail of a common law being in force in the United States (which principle possesses the general government at once of all the powers of the state governments, and reduces us to a single consolidated government), it would become the most corrupt government on the earth."

"He [King George III] has erected a multitude of New Offices and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people, and eat out their substance."

"The policy of American government is to leave its citizens free, neither restraining them nor aiding them in their pursuits."