Analysis
In a televised address to the Soviet people in early 1990, Gorbachev emphasized the importance of political reforms and called democracy essential for the country's future. However, the precise phrasing “We need democracy like air. Without it, there is no life for us, no progress.” does not appear in the published transcript; it appears to be a paraphrase or a later summarization of his sentiment. Therefore, the statement captures the gist of his message but is not a verbatim quote.
Background
During 1990, Gorbachev was promoting perestroika and glasnost, urging the Soviet Union to adopt democratic principles to revitalize the system. His speeches often highlighted democracy as vital for societal renewal, but exact wording varied across different broadcasts.
Verdict summary
Gorbachev spoke about the necessity of democracy, but the exact quoted wording is not verified in the official transcript.