Meaning: The quote "To be a statesman, you must first get elected" by J. William Fulbright, a prominent politician in American history, encapsulates the fundamental challenge and paradox of political leadership. It succinctly captures the idea that in order to have the opportunity to exercise statesmanship and make a positive impact on society, one must first navigate the complex and often arduous process of being elected to a position of power and influence. This quote reflects the inherent tension between the ideals of statesmanship and the practical realities of electoral politics.

J. William Fulbright, the author of this quote, was a U.S. senator from Arkansas who served in the Senate from 1945 to 1974. He is best known for the Fulbright Program, which he established in 1946. The program, officially known as the Fulbright U.S. Student Program, is a prestigious international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government. Fulbright's career in politics and his commitment to international cooperation and diplomacy make his perspective on the relationship between statesmanship and the electoral process particularly insightful.

The concept of statesmanship encompasses the idea of visionary and principled leadership that transcends narrow political interests and focuses on the long-term well-being of the nation and its citizens. A statesman or stateswoman is often seen as someone who possesses wisdom, integrity, and a deep understanding of the complexities of governance. Statesmanship involves making difficult decisions, building consensus, and pursuing policies that are guided by a sense of moral purpose and the common good.

However, the path to political leadership often requires candidates to engage in a highly competitive and sometimes contentious electoral process. Elections can be characterized by intense campaigning, strategic maneuvering, and the need to appeal to a diverse electorate. In this context, the quote by Fulbright suggests that the qualities and virtues associated with statesmanship may not always align with the skills and tactics necessary to win elections. This dissonance between the demands of electoral politics and the ideals of statesmanship can create a dilemma for aspiring leaders.

In many political systems, the electoral process can incentivize candidates to prioritize short-term gains and partisan objectives over the broader goals of statesmanship. Campaigns may focus on appealing to specific interest groups, leveraging media strategies, and engaging in political rhetoric that is tailored to win votes. This reality can pose a challenge for individuals who aspire to embody the attributes of statesmanship and pursue a more principled and visionary approach to governance.

Moreover, the quote also implies that the process of getting elected is a prerequisite for gaining the platform and authority necessary to exercise statesmanship. Without winning an election and securing a position of influence within the government, aspiring statesmen and stateswomen may find it difficult to enact their vision and implement the policies they believe are in the best interest of their constituents and the nation as a whole.

At the same time, the quote by Fulbright does not necessarily suggest that the pursuit of electoral success and the practice of statesmanship are inherently incompatible. Rather, it highlights the inherent tension and trade-offs that individuals in politics may face as they seek to balance the imperatives of winning elections with the responsibilities of effective and principled leadership.

In conclusion, J. William Fulbright's quote "To be a statesman, you must first get elected" encapsulates the complex interplay between the ideals of statesmanship and the practical realities of electoral politics. It underscores the challenges and dilemmas that political leaders may encounter as they navigate the tension between the demands of winning elections and the aspirations of exercising principled and visionary leadership. Fulbright's insight serves as a reminder of the nuanced nature of political leadership and the inherent complexities of pursuing statesmanship within the context of the electoral process.