Calvin Coolidge Comments: "In a republic the first rule for the guidance of the citizen is obedience to law."

"Our system of government made up of three separate and independent departments, our divided sovereignty composed of Nation and State, the matchless wisdom that is enshrined in our Con
stitution, all these need constant effort and tireless vigilance for their protection and support. In a republic the first rule for the guidance of the citizen is obedience to law. Under a despotism the law may be imposed upon the subject. He has no voice in its making, no influence in its administration, it does not represent him.
Under a free government the citizen makes his own laws, chooses his own administrators, which do represent him. Those who want their rights respected under the Constitution and the law ought to set the example themselves of observing the Constitution and the law. While there may be those of high intelligence who violate the law at times, barbarian and the defective always violate it. Those
who disregard the rules of society are not exhibiting a superior intelligence, are not promoting freedom and independence, are not following the path of civilization, but are displaying the traits of ignorance, of servitude, of savagery, and treading the way that leads back to the jungle.
The essence of a republic is representative government. Our Congress represents the people and the States. In all legislative affairs it is the natural collaborator with the President. In spite of all the criticism which often falls to its lot, I do not hesitate to say that there is no more in dependent and effective legislative body in the world. It is, and should be, jealous of its prerogative. I welcome its
cooperation, and expect to share with it not only the responsibility, but the credit, for our common effort to secure beneficial legislation."
Calvin Coolidge - From Inaugural Address of March 4, 1925