Noah Webster, (1758-1843) American patriot and scholar, author of the first dictionary of American English usage (1806) and the author of the 1828 edition of the dictionary that bears his name. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Comment on this quote Share via Email Print this Page Noah Webster Quote “In selecting men for office, let principle be your guide. Regard not the particular sect or denomination of the candidate -- look at his character. It is alleged by men of loose principles, or defective views of the subject, that religion and morality are not necessary or important qualifications for political stations. But the scriptures teach a different doctrine. They direct that rulers should be men who rule in the fear of God, men of truth, hating covetousness. It is to the neglect of this rule that we must ascribe the multiplied frauds, breaches of trust, speculations and embezzlements of public property which astonish even ourselves; which tarnish the character of our country and which disgrace our government. When a citizen gives his vote to a man of known immorality, he abuses his civic responsibility; he not only sacrifices his own responsibility; he sacrifices not only his own interest, but that of his neighbor; he betrays the interest of his country.”Noah Webster ~ Noah Webster (1758-1843) American patriot and scholar, author of the first dictionary of American English usage (1806) and the author of the 1828 edition of the dictionary that bears his name. Election , Virtue Ratings and Comments 3 Reply Mike, Norwalk 11/3/09 WOW!!! We hold this truth absolute, especially in an operational representative republic, as was the original intent. Volumes could be written in support of this comment. Such noble concept has been lost by men of loose principles, and defective views now infesting this land with their statist theocracy. 1 Reply warren, olathe 11/3/09 Couldn't have been said better. Now we hear excuses for voting habits like "character doesn't matter”! 1 Reply J Carlton, Calgary 11/3/09 There are very few worthy choices left. Vote out every incumbent nbext election. (Save the ones who honor the Constitution) 1 Reply E Archer, NYC 11/4/09 Excellent. When the American people insist on honor and integrity in themselves, they will eventually choose representatives that reflect that. We can blame the 'government' and the politicians, but it is really because we as a people do not currently value truth above the spoils of war. Reply Mary, MI 10/12/20 Reply Ronw13, Idaho 10/12/20 SaveOk2 SaveOk2 View CommentsClick to view or comment. Share on Facebook Tweet Email Print This Noah Webster quote is found in these categories: Election quotes Virtue quotes About Noah Webster Bio of Noah Webster Quotations by Noah Webster Books by/about Noah Webster Noah Webster videos Noah Webster on Wikipedia Astrological chart for Noah Webster