"Mr. Truman studiously avoided giving power to his White House staff that has been characteristic of recent administrations. Staff people in the White House, with no responsibility but incredible authority is one of the reasons we're now in so much trouble"

Stuart Symington's quote highlights a basic shift in the characteristics of presidential administration, contrasting the functional design of President Harry S. Truman with more modern White House administrations. Symington points to Truman's intentional choice to restrain the authority of his White House personnel, recommending that Truman focused on a carefully balanced distribution of power and duty. This technique reflects a leadership design that counts on guaranteeing those who wield considerable authority are also liable for their actions and choices.

In Truman's time, decision-making power was likely focused more heavily in the president himself and those directly accountable to the electorate, such as cabinet members. By keeping his personnel's power in check, Truman reduced the threat of choices being made by individuals who did not face the exact same level of analysis or obligation as chosen officials. Symington's statement infers that such a method cultivates a more democratic and reputable governance system where accountability is clear and effectively aligned with authority.

Conversely, the latter part of the quote slams more current administrations for bestowing significant power upon White House team member who do not hold main obligation equivalent to their authority. This imbalance, Symington argues, contributes to political troubles by enabling choices that might not be completely thought through or subjected to necessary oversight. Such a structure can result in inadequacies and mistakes, as those with decision-making power might not bear the direct consequences of their actions, consequently fostering an absence of accountability.

Symington's warning is a commentary on governance practices, emphasizing the crucial significance of aligning authority with duty. He posits that wandering off from this principle has added to the difficulties dealt with by more current administrations, recommending that a go back to Truman's sensible dispersal of power may reduce the concerns of modern-day governance and enhance democratic accountability.