# X: The Way to Resume Is to Resume explained — The New Freedom

> Chapter companion for The New Freedom by Woodrow Wilson.

## What happens

Wilson argues that the American people have allowed themselves to be governed by uninvited political bosses who serve secret private interests rather than the public. He contrasts this with the Oregon System of direct democracy and recounts reforms in New Jersey, including a Corrupt Practices Act and election reforms. He concludes that the way to reclaim government is simply to resume control, as the bosses' power is a mere cardboard fabric.

## Themes in this chapter

### Transparency and Public Counsel

Wilson condemns secret boss rule and advocates for open government where citizens can see and control their leaders.

### The Common Man and Popular Wisdom

Wilson expresses faith in the people's ability to govern themselves through direct primaries, initiative, and referendum.

### Government Trusteeship vs. Democracy

Wilson contrasts genuine representative government with the trusteeship of bosses who serve private interests.

## Character check-ins

### Mr. U'Ren

Father of the Oregon System; uses initiative to bypass legislature and put bosses out of business.

### Tom

Mentioned in the context of Tweedledum or Tweedledee, representing the false choice between machine nominees.

### Jack

Mentioned in the context of Tweedledum or Tweedledee, representing the false choice between machine nominees.

## Key lines

> The way to resume is to resume

The simplest method to reclaim control of government is to take direct action without fear.

_Wilson uses Horace Greeley's phrase to encourage citizens to assert their authority._

> A boss is not so much a politician as the business agent in politics of the special interests.

A political boss acts as a liaison for private business interests rather than as a genuine political leader.

_Wilson distinguishes between legitimate political organization and corrupt bossism._

> I would a great deal rather live under a king whom I should at least know, than under a boss whom I don’t know.

An open autocrat is preferable to a hidden manipulator whose influence is invisible.

_Wilson emphasizes the danger of secret power in politics._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_new_freedom_se/chapters/x-the-way-to-resume-is-to-resume
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_new_freedom_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_new_freedom_se/chapters