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Free Election Quotes

On democracy, historic votes, and the freedom to choose.

These free election quotes mostly look back at historic votes held after long periods without genuine democratic choice, describing the significance of citizens finally being able to cast a ballot. Several reflect on how fragile a first election can be when a country is still finding its political footing.

Last month, the Iraqi people went to the polls, voting in their first free election in more than 50 years.

Quotes by John M. McHugh

On Jan. 30, millions of Iraqis will cast ballots in the country's first fair and free election in decades, marking continued progress in Iraq's transition toward a country built on the pillars of democracy and freedom for all.

Quotes by Jim Gerlach

Sometimes the results of a first free election will find the moderates so poorly organized that extreme groups can eke out a victory, as Hamas did when it gained a 44-to-41 percent margin in the Palestinian election of 2006.

Quotes by Elliott Abrams

Surely no issue unites us more than our appreciation for our military personnel who are bringing aid to devastated countries, defending us against terrorism, and fighting to make a free election possible in Iraq.

Quotes by Christine Gregoire

Frequently Asked Questions

What historic elections do these quotes reference?
Several point to a specific country's first vote in decades, describing it as a major milestone after a long stretch without genuine democratic choice.
Do the quotes suggest a free election always goes smoothly?
No, one specifically notes that early elections can be unpredictable, since newly formed political groups may not yet be well organized enough to compete evenly.
Is there a quote connecting the military to elections?
Yes, one expresses appreciation for military personnel who help provide security and aid so that a free vote can actually take place.
What does 'free election' mean in these quotes?
It generally refers to a vote where citizens can choose their leaders without coercion, often held up as a hard-won democratic achievement.
Are these quotes tied to any single country?
A couple reference a specific nation's post-conflict elections, but the broader theme is about the value of democracy and free choice generally, not partisan commentary.

One quote also honors military personnel who help create the conditions that make a free vote possible, connecting the idea of democracy to the sacrifices made to protect it.