Meaning: This quote by Karl Rove, a prominent political strategist and former Deputy Chief of Staff to President George W. Bush, reflects the ideological divide in the United States in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. Rove's statement highlights the differing responses to the tragic events of September 11, 2001, from conservatives and liberals. The quote encapsulates the perception that conservatives were inclined towards a more aggressive and militaristic response, while liberals were perceived as advocating for a more diplomatic and legal approach.

Rove's characterization of the conservative response to 9/11 as "prepared for war" suggests a readiness to use military force and assertive foreign policy measures in response to the attacks. This aligns with the Bush administration's subsequent decision to launch the War on Terror, which included the invasion of Afghanistan in 2001 and later the invasion of Iraq in 2003. The conservative approach to national security and counterterrorism in the post-9/11 era was defined by a focus on military intervention, preemptive action, and the use of force to combat perceived threats to the United States and its interests.

On the other hand, Rove's portrayal of the liberal response as wanting to "prepare indictments and offer therapy and understanding for our attackers" suggests a more restrained and legalistic approach. This characterization implies a focus on due process, criminal justice, and a desire to understand the root causes of terrorism. It reflects a willingness to engage in diplomacy, seek international cooperation, and address the underlying grievances that may have contributed to the 9/11 attacks. The emphasis on "therapy and understanding" also alludes to a more empathetic and conciliatory stance towards the perpetrators of the attacks, in contrast to a purely confrontational or punitive approach.

Rove's quote has been the subject of intense debate and scrutiny, with critics arguing that it oversimplifies and polarizes the complex range of responses to 9/11 within American political discourse. The quote has been used to highlight the perceived divergence in attitudes towards national security, foreign policy, and the appropriate use of military force between conservatives and liberals. It has also been employed to underscore the broader ideological and cultural contrasts between the two political camps, particularly in the context of a defining national trauma such as the 9/11 attacks.

It is important to recognize that Rove's quote reflects a specific viewpoint and interpretation of the post-9/11 political landscape, and it may not fully capture the nuances and diversity of opinions within both conservative and liberal circles. The quote has been utilized to illustrate the perceived strengths and weaknesses of each approach, with conservatives being portrayed as strong on national security and defense, and liberals being characterized as prioritizing legal and diplomatic solutions.

In conclusion, Karl Rove's quote encapsulates the divergent responses to the 9/11 attacks from the conservative and liberal perspectives, framing the debate in terms of military preparedness versus legal and diplomatic remedies. It has been a focal point in discussions about the ideological divide in American politics and the contrasting approaches to national security and foreign policy in the wake of a seminal event in the nation's history. The quote continues to be cited and analyzed in the ongoing discourse surrounding the legacy of 9/11 and its enduring impact on American politics and society.