Who believed government jobs should go to the most qualified candidates regardless of who they supported politically?

The belief that government jobs should go to the most qualified candidates, regardless of political affiliation, is most closely associated with the principles of the merit system, which was advocated by reformers like President Chester A. Arthur during the late 19th century. This perspective led to the establishment of the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act in 1883, which sought to reduce political patronage and ensure that government positions were filled based on ability and merit rather than political connections.