"When they call the roll in the Senate, the Senators do not know whether to answer "Present" or "Not guilty.""
About this Quote
Theodore Roosevelt’s biting remark about the Senate captures a longstanding skepticism regarding the integrity of political institutions and the people who serve within them. He draws a parallel between a routine process in legislative procedure, the calling of the roll, when Senators are expected to declare their presence by answering “Present”, and the practice in criminal trials, where a defendant is asked to plead “Guilty” or “Not guilty.” The analogy is sharp: Roosevelt suggests that the Senate, a body entrusted with representing the public and crafting laws, has so thoroughly earned suspicion about its members’ ethics that its formal proceedings resemble those of a criminal court.
By juxtaposing “Present” with “Not guilty,” Roosevelt highlights the public’s perception that political office is marred by self-interest, corruption, or at least moral ambiguity. The Senators, theoretically public servants, are subtly equated to defendants on trial, as if attendance and participation in their duties is inherently suspect, necessitating not just acknowledgment of their presence, but a denial of wrongdoing. The humor in the statement is laced with cynicism, implying that society sees little distinction between politicians and potential wrongdoers, and that the political process itself is tainted. This quip leverages the double meaning of Senate “attendance,” hinting that being present is not enough; integrity and ethical behavior are the true requirements being silently questioned.
Roosevelt’s observation reflects his broader reformist and anti-corruption stance, revealing a concern for the moral fiber of political leaders. It is a call for accountability, urging those in power to maintain not just the appearance, but the substance, of honesty and public service. The quote remains relevant as an incisive commentary on governance, public suspicion, and the perpetual challenge of holding leaders to high standards.