Benjamin Franklin said there were only two things certain in life: death and taxes. But I'd like to add a third certainty: trash. And while some in this room might want to discuss reducing taxes, I want to talk about reducing trash.

Ruth Ann Minner's quote, "Benjamin Franklin said there were only two things certain in life: death and taxes. But I'd like to add a third certainty: trash," humorously extends Franklin's famous observation about life’s inevitable aspects to include the reality of waste. By adding trash as a third certainty, Minner emphasizes how the accumulation of waste is a constant and ever-present issue in modern life, just as death and taxes are. This extension highlights the importance of addressing everyday environmental concerns, alongside more traditional societal problems.

The second part of the quote, "And while some in this room might want to discuss reducing taxes, I want to talk about reducing trash," shifts the focus from fiscal policy to environmental responsibility. Minner is making a point about the pressing need to focus on sustainability and waste management in public discourse. While economic issues like taxes often dominate political conversations, she advocates for prioritizing the environment, particularly the challenge of reducing waste that affects communities and ecosystems.

Ruth Ann Minner, who served as the Governor of Delaware, was an advocate for environmental issues and sustainability during her time in office. Her statement reflects her commitment to improving the state’s environmental policies and raising awareness about the need for better waste management and recycling efforts. Minner used her platform to encourage responsible waste practices and recognize that environmental concerns, like trash, are just as important as economic ones.

The origin of this quote lies in Minner’s efforts to shift the political conversation toward more practical, environmentally-conscious issues. By echoing Franklin’s timeless words, she brings attention to an issue that is both persistent and urgent, advocating for a balance between fiscal policy and the growing need to address environmental sustainability.