Date: September 29, 1930
Location: Northampton, MA
Summary: The success of self-government depends on the intuition and judgement of the American people at the polls. When voting, citizens should put the utmost care into their decision, as on that decision depends the welfare of the American people.
(Original document available here)
Practically all nominations and all platforms to be voted upon in the November elections have been completed. Men have made great sacrifices of blood and treas’ure to secure the privilege and right of self government. We have extended the franchise to women. All who are eligible should register and vote.
The foundation of popular government depends upon the affirmative action of the people at the polls. It is time to begin a careful study to determine what principles and what candidates should command support. The judgment of the voter should be an informed judgment. The purpose of a campaign is to educate the voters on the issues and the ability and character of the candidates.
Elections are the most serious business in which our citizens engage. On their results depends not only the welfare of the people but the demonstration of their ability to govern themselves with safety and justice to each other. The greatest peace-time test of the moral power of a people is the ability to cast a disinterested, unselfish and patriotic vote. At the present time the country needs the most conscientious thought it can give in choosing officers. Only such decision is worthy of a free people.
Citation: Calvin Coolidge Says: Dispatches Written by Former-President Coolidge and Syndicated to Newspapers in 1930-1931 (Calvin Coolidge Memorial Foundation)
The Coolidge Foundation gratefully acknowledges the volunteer efforts of Lily Dalsin who prepared this document for digital publication.