A politician will do anything to keep his job - even become a

William Randolph, sharp observer of men and master of wit, once declared: “A politician will do anything to keep his job—even become a patriot.” In these words lies a double-edged truth: that the mantle of patriotism, sacred and noble, is too often worn not from love of country but from fear of losing power. The politician, desiring office above all, may cloak himself in banners and anthems, not to serve the people, but to preserve himself. Thus, Randolph unmasks the irony that patriotism—the highest of virtues—can be reduced to a tool of survival in the hands of the ambitious.

The origin of this sentiment is as old as politics itself. Randolph lived in an America where the press and politicians were locked in constant battle, where public men sought not only to lead but to preserve their image before the masses. He saw that in moments of crisis, politicians often discovered sudden bursts of patriotism, proclaiming their loyalty with thunderous speeches, while their true aim was not service but security in office. His words remind us that the most dangerous patriotism is that which is feigned.

History offers us many echoes of this truth. In ancient Rome, when the Republic trembled, men like Mark Antony and Octavian wrapped themselves in the language of Rome’s glory. They cried that their actions were for the salvation of the Republic, even as they sought dominion for themselves. Their patriotism was the armor of ambition. Rome’s people, stirred by slogans, often mistook these performances for genuine devotion, until too late they realized that self-preservation, not service, had been the true cause.

So too in America’s own story. During the Red Scare, politicians brandished patriotism as proof of loyalty, denouncing rivals as traitors to elevate themselves. To speak loudly of America became a way to shield one’s career. Yet the loudest cries of “patriot” sometimes concealed the smallest acts of courage. Randolph’s jest was a reminder that true patriotism is measured not in words shouted on the stage, but in sacrifices made when no audience applauds.

Therefore, O seekers of wisdom, learn to weigh the patriotism of leaders. Ask not how loudly they proclaim their love of country, but how deeply they act for the good of the people. For a politician may feign patriotism to keep his post, but a true patriot will risk his post to keep his principles. In this distinction lies the measure of greatness.