sounds familar

From Wikipedia:

Goering spoke about war and extreme nationalism during the Nuremberg trials to his judges:

“Naturally the common people don't want war; neither in Russia, nor in England, nor in America, nor in Germany. That is understood. But after all, it is the leaders of the country who determine policy, and it is always a simple matter to drag the people along, whether it is a democracy, or a fascist dictatorship, or a parliament, or a communist dictatorship. Voice or no voice, the people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders. That is easy. All you have to do is to tell them they are being attacked, and denounce the pacifists for lack of patriotism and exposing the country to danger. It works the same in any country.”

Also found in Wikipedia:

"Well, when the President does it that means that it's not illegal." (Richard Nixon explaining his interpretation of Executive Privilege to interviewer David Frost on television, May 19, 1977.)

And then, to clear the air:

http://www.wagingpeace.org/articles/2004/05/26_gore_remarks.htm