Meaning: This quote by Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States, encapsulates a fundamental principle of democracy: the idea that the power of the government ultimately resides in the hands of the people. Roosevelt's words serve as a reminder that in a democratic society, the citizens hold the ultimate authority and responsibility for the functioning and direction of their government.

In this quote, Roosevelt emphasizes the concept of self-governance, asserting that the government is not an external force exerting control over the populace, but rather a reflection of the will and collective action of the citizens. He underscores the idea that elected officials, including the President, senators, and congressmen, derive their authority from the electorate, and their actions and decisions should be guided by the interests and welfare of the people they serve.

Roosevelt's words also highlight the dynamic and reciprocal nature of democratic governance. He suggests that the relationship between the government and the governed is not one of dominance and subjugation, but rather one of mutual accountability and influence. The government is a manifestation of the values, beliefs, and choices of the populace, and in turn, it is beholden to the people for its legitimacy and continued existence.

The quote underscores the essential role of voters in shaping the course of the nation's governance. It serves as a call to action, urging citizens to recognize their own agency and impact in the political process. By acknowledging the voters as the "ultimate rulers" of democracy, Roosevelt emphasizes the significance of civic engagement, informed participation, and the exercise of the right to vote as vital components of a functioning democracy.

Furthermore, the quote resonates with the principle of popular sovereignty, a foundational concept in democratic theory. Popular sovereignty asserts that the authority of the government is derived from the consent of the governed, and that the people are the primary source of political power. Roosevelt's words align with this principle by emphasizing that the true power of the democracy lies within the electorate, thereby reinforcing the idea that the government's legitimacy stems from the will of the people.

Roosevelt's quote also carries a message of empowerment and responsibility. By framing the government as "ourselves," he encourages citizens to take an active role in shaping the policies and direction of their country. This sentiment aligns with the notion of civic duty and underscores the importance of an informed, engaged, and participatory citizenry in upholding the principles of democracy.

In conclusion, Franklin D. Roosevelt's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the foundational principles of democracy, emphasizing the centrality of the electorate in the governance of the nation. It underscores the idea that the government is a reflection of the will and actions of the people, and that the ultimate authority of democracy resides in the hands of the citizens. By recognizing the voters as the "ultimate rulers," Roosevelt's words carry a timeless message about the power, responsibility, and agency of the people in shaping the course of their governance.