George Washington

Avoid occasions of expense. . . and avoid likewise the accumulation of debt not only by shunning occasions of expense but by vigorous exertions to discharge the debts, not throwing upon posterity the burden which we ourselves ought to bear.

– George Washington

James Madison

I go on the principle that a public debt is a public curse, and in a Republican Government a greater curse than any other

– James Madison

Benjamin Franklin

When you run in debt; you give to another power over your liberty

– Benjamin Franklin