The reason I got involved in public service, by and large, if I had to credit one thinker, one person, it would be Ayn Rand. The fight we are in here, make no mistake about it, is a fight of individualism versus collectivism.
This quote highlights the importance of individualism as a core principle in public service and political ideology. It reflects a belief in personal responsibility, autonomy, and freedom as fundamental to society's success. Emphasizing Ayn Rand's influence suggests a preference for free-market values and skepticism of collectivist approaches. The tension between individual rights and collective needs remains a central theme in political discourse, and this quote underscores the enduring debate about the ideal balance between the two. Such perspectives are crucial in understanding the ideological foundations that shape policies and governance decisions.