Quotes By Donald Rumsfeld

Don't say "the White House wants." Buildings can't want.

Don't speak ill of your predecessors or successors. You didn't walk in their shoes.

In the execution of Presidential decisions work to be true to his views, in fact and tone.

First rule of politics: you can't win unless you're on the ballot. Second rule: If you run, you may lose. And, if you tie, you do not win.

Preserve the President's options. He may need them.

When you raise issues with the President, try to come away with both that decision and also a precedent. Pose issues so as to evoke broader policy guidance. This can help to answer a range of similar issues likely to arise later.

When cutting staff at the Pentagon, don't eliminate the thin layer that assures civilian control.

The Federal Government should be the last resort, not the first. Ask if a potential program is truly a federal responsibility or whether it can better be handled privately, by voluntary organizations, or by local or state governments.

The Secretary of Defense is not a super General or Admiral. His task is to exercise civilian control over the Department for the Commander-in-Chief and the country.

Be able to resign. It will improve your value to the President and do wonders for your performance.

It is easier to get into something than to get out of it.

Remember where you came from.