Jefferson mingled a great deal with the common people, especially with
mechanics.
Often, when President, he would walk down to the Navy Yard early on a
summer's morning, and sitting down upon an anchor or spar, would enter
into conversation with the surprised and delighted shipwrights. He asked
many questions of these artisans, who would take the utmost pains to
satisfy his enquiries.
His political opponents believed unjustly that he did this simply for
effect. They would say,
"There, see the demagogue!"
"There's long Tom, sinking the dignity of his station to get votes and
court the mob."