If we would vote in mass on the more promising ticket, or, if the two are equally bad, would throw out the party that is in, and wait till the next election and then throw out the other party that is in - then, I say, the commercial politician would feel a demand for good government and he would supply it.

Lincoln Steffens’s quote advocates for voter engagement and accountability in the political system. He argues that if voters consistently vote for the more promising candidates, or if both major parties offer equally unsatisfactory options, voters should be willing to "throw out" the party in power and hold them accountable. The idea is that by creating a cyclical pressure on politicians through regular electoral changes, there would be a demand for good government, forcing politicians, particularly commercial politicians, to focus on providing effective leadership rather than maintaining power.

Steffens, a prominent journalist and social reformer, was known for his investigative work on political corruption in the early 20th century. His quote reflects his belief that the corruption and inefficiency of politicians could be mitigated if the public took a more active and critical role in elections. By voting based on performance and actively rejecting politicians who fail to meet the public's needs, Steffens believed that a better, more accountable government would emerge, one that would prioritize the interests of the people over personal or commercial gains.

The origin of the quote is rooted in Steffens’s long-standing critique of political corruption and his calls for reform. During his career, Steffens exposed the corruption within both corporate and political spheres, especially in relation to the influence of money on politics. His work reflected a belief that active participation from the public was necessary to break the cycle of corruption and to encourage politicians to work for the common good.

In essence, Steffens’s quote underscores the importance of citizen activism in fostering a responsive and effective government. He suggests that if the public used their voting power to demand better governance, politicians—especially those with commercial interests—would be forced to adjust and provide the leadership that truly benefits the nation. This vision of a more accountable democracy highlights the critical role that voters play in shaping the political landscape.