# Why I Did Not Choose to Run explained — The Autobiography of Calvin Coolidge

> Chapter companion for The Autobiography of Calvin Coolidge by Calvin Coolidge.

## What happens

Coolidge explains his decision not to seek re-election in 1928, citing the heavy toll of the presidency, the importance of avoiding selfishness and self-delusion, and the belief that a new impulse would benefit the country. He details his careful public announcement, his instructions to delegates not to vote for him, and his desire to return to private life and serve as a citizen.

## Themes in this chapter

### The Burden of the Presidency

Coolidge describes the heavy toll the office takes on the president and their family, and the difficulty of serving more than eight years.

### Humility and Self-Awareness

Coolidge warns against self-delusion and arrogance in high office, and emphasizes the need to avoid the appearance of selfishness.

### Duty and Public Service

Coolidge expresses his desire to serve the country again as a private citizen, and stresses the value of hard work and dignified employment.

### Frugality and Economy in Government

Coolidge notes that presidents are not supported at public expense after leaving office, and should not encourage a leisure class.

## Character check-ins

### Calvin Coolidge

Reflects on his decision not to run for re-election, his reasons, and his actions to prevent his nomination.

### Mrs. Coolidge

Mentioned as the Mistress of the White House, whose health Coolidge considered in his decision.

### Everett Sanders

Sent by Coolidge to Kansas City with instructions to notify state delegation leaders not to vote for Coolidge.

### George Washington

Cited by Coolidge as having made a similar retirement announcement in his Farewell Address.

## Key lines

> I do not choose to run

Coolidge announced he would not seek the presidency in 1928.

_His public statement was carefully worded and later compared to Washington's Farewell Address._

> The Presidential office takes a heavy toll of those who occupy it and those who are dear to them.

The presidency exacts a significant personal cost from the president and their family.

_Coolidge considered this a key reason for not running again._

> It is difficult for men in high office to avoid the malady of self-delusion. They are always surrounded by worshipers.

Leaders in high positions risk losing perspective due to constant flattery and adulation.

_Coolidge believed this impaired judgment and made rotation in office beneficial._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_autobiography_of_calvin_coolidge_se/chapters/vii-why-i-did-not-choose-to-run
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_autobiography_of_calvin_coolidge_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_autobiography_of_calvin_coolidge_se/chapters