Meaning: The quote "We shall tax and tax, and spend and spend, and elect and elect" is often attributed to Harry Hopkins, an influential figure in American politics during the 1930s and 1940s. While the exact context in which Hopkins made this statement is not clear, the quote is commonly interpreted as a reflection of his belief in the necessity of government intervention and spending during times of economic hardship.

Harry Hopkins was a key advisor to President Franklin D. Roosevelt and played a crucial role in shaping the New Deal, a series of programs and policies aimed at alleviating the effects of the Great Depression. As the head of the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and later the Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA), Hopkins oversaw the implementation of various relief efforts, including public works projects and direct financial assistance to those in need.

The quote can be seen as a succinct expression of Hopkins' philosophy regarding government action. The repetition of "tax and tax" and "spend and spend" suggests a deliberate and unapologetic approach to using government resources to address social and economic challenges. In the context of the Great Depression, when widespread unemployment and poverty had created a sense of urgency, Hopkins advocated for aggressive measures to stimulate the economy and provide relief to those in need.

The final part of the quote, "and elect and elect," may be interpreted as a recognition of the political implications of such actions. By emphasizing the importance of elections, Hopkins may have been highlighting the need for public support and political will to sustain the kind of government intervention he was advocating. His statement could be seen as an acknowledgment of the democratic process and the role of public opinion in shaping government policies.

It is important to note that the quote reflects a specific historical context and set of challenges. The Great Depression represented a period of unprecedented economic turmoil, and the policies advocated by Hopkins and implemented through the New Deal were responses to the unique circumstances of that time. The quote should be understood within this context, rather than as a general statement about economic or political theory.

Hopkins' approach to government intervention and spending has been the subject of ongoing debate and analysis. Critics of the New Deal and similar interventionist policies argue that excessive government spending and taxation can have negative long-term consequences, such as inflation and reduced economic productivity. On the other hand, proponents of such policies point to the positive impact they had in providing relief to millions of Americans during a time of dire need.

In conclusion, the quote "We shall tax and tax, and spend and spend, and elect and elect" attributed to Harry Hopkins encapsulates a bold and unapologetic approach to government intervention and spending during the Great Depression. It reflects a commitment to using the resources of the state to address economic hardship and social inequality, while also acknowledging the importance of public support and political engagement. Understanding the historical context in which this quote emerged is crucial to appreciating its significance and relevance.