"If you were a public official, you had to be accountable, and you had to be reachable"

The quote by James Jarrell Pickle, "If you were a public official, you needed to be responsible, and you needed to be reachable", emphasizes two essential principles of democratic governance: responsibility and availability. These concepts are important for maintaining the trust and self-confidence of the public in their leaders and institutions.

Firstly, accountability refers to the obligation of public authorities to take duty for their actions and choices. This principle is central to democratic systems where officials are elected to serve the general public interest. Responsibility ensures that these officials act in a manner constant with the worths and expectations of their constituents. When public officials make choices, they should do so with the understanding that they will need to validate and explain their actions to the general public. This might include ethical decision-making, transparency in governance, and a dedication to addressing public issues and complaints. Thus, responsibility serves as a mechanism to secure against abuse of power and to promote stability within public workplace.

Second of all, the concept of being obtainable describes the ease of access of public officials to the people they serve. In a healthy democracy, there must be open lines of communication in between citizens and their agents. This availability enables the public to express their viewpoints, seek support, and impact governance through dialogue and feedback. It ensures that public officials stay connected to the realities and requirements of their constituents, fostering a federal government that is responsive and understanding. Reachability motivates participation and engagement from the general public, which is essential for crafting policies that reflect the collective will and address real challenges faced by society.

In essence, Pickle's quote highlights the significance of a well balanced relationship between public authorities and residents, grounded in accountability and openness. These principles not only boost the function of democratic institutions but also contribute to constructing a transparent, responsive, and credible government.