-- Ann Richards, Former Governor of Texas
This was one of the first quotes I included in Citi(zen) Inspirations. Governor Richards was always good for a great quote. She was also good for a big heart, fabulous wit, honesty, and being a champion for women and minorities. I was sad to hear of her passing.I have not seen her since the Kerry campaign, but as always, she made me laugh and made me think. She said she wanted to be remembered as someone “who opened government to everyone”, that is certainly how I will remember her.
There had not been a woman in the Governor’s mansion for 50 years and when she won she famously held up a t-shirt that said “A Woman’s place is in the dome.” Most people were introduced to Governor Richards in 1988 when she delivered the keynote address at the Democratic National convention. Always, looking to give a nod to her sisters, she remarked, that Ginger Rogers did everything that Fred Astaire did "only (she did it) backwards and in high heels." I appreciate that shout-out. When I was running political campaigns and had to go from casual clothes speaking to farmers, to suits, to gowns, I wondered if the guys knew it was a bit tougher for me.
Governor Ann Richards was open about her failings, including having been an alcoholic, but I appreciated her candor and I think it probably helped many that she was so open about her faults. I will miss her fire and humor - the Democratic party could use more Ann Richards if you ask me. Plus, have you heard any Dem around now match this quote about Bush?:
"Poor George, he can't help it. He was born with a silver foot in his mouth."
She was a strong woman. If you messed with her you had better be a strong man or she would put you in your place. We need more leaders like Ann Richards. She will be missed. God bless Texas, and God bless Ann.
Posted by: Joe at September 14, 2006 05:35 PMI remember seeing her on Letterman one night. She was like a breathe of fresh air! Down-to-earth, witty, relaxed and genuine. There is so much pretense in politics today. She was the real McCoy, and I still find it hard to understand how the majority in Texas chose George W. Bush over Ann's re-election. We are so in need of more leaders like Ann Richards! Bravo to Ann.
Posted by: Eric at September 14, 2006 05:44 PMwe lost a great American, a candid and refreshing voice.
God Bless Her and her family.
Although her "silver foot" comment made history, she had actually started that speech with "I'm Ann Richards. I'm pro-choice and I vote." Wow!I will never forget the thrill at hearing her say that on the national stage. Good god, this country needs more fearless leaders like her. Godspeed, Ann...I'll miss you.
Posted by: Melanie at September 14, 2006 09:10 PMSo Melanie was thrilled at Ann Richards' line "'I'm Ann Richards, I'm pro-choice and I vote'" and that the country needs more "fearless leaders" like her.
Its both sad and pathetic that Melanie thinks support for the killing of unborn children is thrilling and an example of fearless leadership. Ms. Richards' statement, while appealing to pro-abortion extremists, is actually quite shallow and eminently forgettable when compared to "Mr Gorbechev, tear down this wall" or "Ich en Berliner" or even "Let the little ones come to me." Thrilling? Fearless? An ideological stooge like Richards couldn't hold a candle to the men who uttered these remarks.
Posted by: George Tomezsko at September 17, 2006 12:28 PMIf you want to write about Ann Richards quotes, please remember to mention when she called her opponent in the 1994 Texas governor's race 'some jerk'. Or her comment that a woman wouldn't be able to use a concealed handgun because she wouldn't be able to find it in her purse, which many women found thoroughly insulting regardless of their stance on gun control.
Posted by: JSC at September 17, 2006 02:26 PMI'm praying for you George, and for JSC as well.
Posted by: mother t at September 17, 2006 07:29 PM