Meaning: This quote by Mary McDonnell, an accomplished actress known for her roles in both film and television, touches on the concept of making difficult decisions in a political context. Let's dissect the quote to understand the depth of its meaning and the implications it carries.

The first part of the quote states, "That moment was very important because it was political." This suggests that the moment being referred to held significance due to its political nature. Politics often involves the negotiation and decision-making processes that shape the direction of a group, organization, or society. In this context, the moment being described likely involved a decision or action that had broader implications and consequences within a political framework.

The next part of the quote mentions a deal being struck, indicating that some form of agreement or compromise was reached. Deals in politics can take various forms, such as policy agreements, diplomatic negotiations, or power-sharing arrangements. The act of striking a deal implies that different parties or interests were involved, and a resolution was reached through negotiation.

The quote continues with, "She figures his is a well-thought-out motivation that she felt was a worthy trade-off." This line delves into the motivations behind the deal and suggests that one party's motivations were carefully considered and deemed acceptable in exchange for something else. It implies a calculated assessment of the value of the trade-off, indicating that the decision was not taken lightly.

The mention of "survival" as the underlying motivation brings a sense of urgency and necessity to the situation. Survival can encompass various aspects, including political, economic, or social survival. The reference to survival suggests that the stakes were high and that the decision-making process was influenced by the need to ensure the continuation or well-being of something or someone.

The quote concludes with, "and she has to think like a leader." This highlights the responsibility that falls on individuals in positions of leadership within political contexts. Leaders are often tasked with making tough decisions that can impact the lives and livelihoods of others. The mention of thinking like a leader implies that the decision-making process involves considering not only personal interests but also the well-being and interests of a larger group or community.

In summary, Mary McDonnell's quote encapsulates the complexity of decision-making in political contexts, emphasizing the weight of such moments, the necessity of negotiation and compromise, and the critical role of leadership in navigating challenging situations. The quote provides insight into the thought processes and considerations involved in political decision-making, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of politics and the implications of such decisions on individuals and society as a whole.