“We may as well face the fact, and face it squarely, that we are too much governed. The agencies of government have multiplied, their ramifications extended, their powers enlarged, and their sphere widened, until the whole system is top-heavy. We are drifting into dangerous and insidious paternalism, submerging the self-reliance of the citizen, and weakening the responsibility and stifling the initiative of the individual. We suffer not from too little legislation but from too much. We need fewer enactments and more repeals.”
Quote by Roland H. Hartley
Author
Roland H. Hartley
Roland H. Hartley (June 26, 1864 – September 21, 1952) was the sixth Governor of Washington State, serving from 1919 to 1921. He was a businessman and politician known for his progressive reform agenda. Born in Pennsylvania, Hartley moved to Everett, Washington, where he built successful careers in the logging and real estate industries before entering politics. As governor, he championed progressive reforms including educational improvements, labor rights protection, and government efficiency. His tenure coincided with the post-World War I era, facing significant social and economic challenges. After his gubernatorial term, Hartley returned to business and passed away in 1952 at age 88. more