"We’re after power and we mean it..."--Fans of Best of the Web Today

Fans of Best of the Web Today--Michael Smith

• Republican Governor Kristi Noem (actual quote):

"Our constitution ensures that the citizen's right is protected. I agree with the role of our government as set forth in our state and in our national constitution. The people themselves are primarily responsible for their safety. They are the ones that are entrusted with expansive freedoms. They're free to exercise their rights to work, to worship, and to play. Or to even stay at home, or to conduct social distancing."

• Democrat Governor Gretchen Whitmer-MI (paraphrased from the official order):

"When I issue a 'stay at home' order, I mean it. You can't go you your vacation home, a vacation rental or for that matter, next door without the state's permission or we'll fine you $1000. You just can't be trusted to do the right thing no matter what any constitution says."

• Dr. Floyd Ferris, Director of the State Science Institute, (Atlas Shrugged):

“Did you really think that we want those laws to be observed?” said Dr. Ferris. 
“We want them broken. 
You’d better get it straight that it’s not a bunch of boy scouts you’re up against—then you’ll know that this is not the age for beautiful gestures. 
We’re after power and we mean it.
You fellows were pikers, but we know the real trick, and you’d better get wise to it. 
There’s no way to rule innocent men. 
The only power any government has is the power to crack down on criminals. 
Well, when there aren’t enough criminals, one makes them. 
One declares so many things to be a crime that it becomes impossible for men to live without breaking laws. 
Who wants a nation of law-abiding citizens? 
What’s there in that for anyone? 
But just pass the kind of laws that can neither be observed nor enforced nor objectively interpreted—and you create a nation of law-breakers—and then you cash in on guilt. 
Now that’s the system, Mr. Rearden, that’s the game, and once you understand it, you’ll be much easier to deal with.”