The government of the United States is and always has been a lawyer's government.

In this quote, Chauncey Depew suggests that the government of the United States has always been shaped and influenced by lawyers and legal professionals. By calling it a "lawyer's government," he emphasizes the crucial role that lawyers have played in the creation, development, and functioning of the U.S. government. This perspective highlights the importance of law and legal expertise in the foundation and ongoing operation of the country’s political and judicial systems.

Depew’s statement reflects the historical fact that many of the nation’s founding fathers were lawyers, and that the U.S. Constitution itself is a legal document that set the framework for governance. Throughout history, lawyers have been central in both shaping policy and interpreting laws. Many politicians and leaders in the U.S. have come from legal backgrounds, further reinforcing the idea of a government rooted in the law.

The quote also suggests that the legal profession has a unique influence on government decisions, policymaking, and the administration of justice. Lawyers in positions of power are often seen as interpreters of the law rather than just political figures, focusing on upholding legal principles. The legal system itself is foundational to U.S. governance, with the judiciary playing a key role in checks and balances.

Ultimately, Depew’s statement underscores the idea that law is the backbone of U.S. governance, and that the influence of lawyers in shaping political and legal frameworks has always been an integral part of the nation’s development.