Hollow Word Theory

Cincinnati mayor John Cranley quotes ex-Cincinnati councilman, Paul Booth as saying, "We will be judged not by what we say but by what we do"
So does this mean you can say whatever because you won't be judged or that you will be judged for breaking your promises ?
Maybe words are just hot air said for one's convenience. Maybe they represent what you do. What is significant about Booth's words? Apparently nothing.