Meaning: The quote by Frank Colby, an educator and writer, addresses the concept of leadership and the standards by which leaders are judged in society. The quote suggests that in some cases, the bar for political leadership is set so low that simply choosing a mayor who will not engage in corrupt activities, such as stealing from the city, is considered a triumph of democracy.

In essence, Colby's quote highlights a fundamental issue in politics and governance - the low expectations that are often placed on elected officials. The quote implies that society should aim for higher standards when selecting its leaders, rather than celebrating the bare minimum of integrity and honesty.

One way to interpret this quote is to consider the broader context of political leadership and public expectations. In many societies, there is a pervasive cynicism about politicians, with widespread assumptions of corruption, dishonesty, and self-serving behavior. Against this backdrop, the quote suggests that the absence of such negative qualities should not be seen as an exceptional achievement, but rather as a basic requirement for those in positions of power.

The quote also raises questions about the nature of democracy and the responsibilities of citizens in the electoral process. By emphasizing the "triumph of the suffrage," Colby seems to be urging voters to demand more from their elected representatives and to hold them to higher ethical standards. It implies that the act of choosing a leader should not be solely about avoiding the worst-case scenarios, but rather about actively seeking out individuals who embody integrity, vision, and genuine commitment to the public good.

This quote is particularly relevant in the context of contemporary political discourse, where the character and conduct of political leaders are subjects of intense scrutiny and debate. It prompts us to consider the qualities and values that we prioritize in our leaders, and to reflect on the broader implications of settling for leaders who merely meet the most basic standards of ethical behavior.

Furthermore, Colby's quote invites us to consider the underlying causes of the phenomenon he describes. It prompts us to examine the factors that contribute to the low expectations we have for our leaders, including issues such as voter apathy, political disillusionment, and the influence of money and power in politics.

In conclusion, Frank Colby's quote challenges us to reevaluate our attitudes towards political leadership and the standards by which we judge the success of democratic processes. It serves as a reminder that the bar for leadership should be set much higher than merely the absence of corruption, and that as citizens, we have a responsibility to demand and aspire to better standards from those who seek to represent us.