Meaning: The quote by Larry Sabato, a well-known political scientist and educator, delves into the dynamics of the contemporary American party system and the inherent polarization that it fosters in every presidency. To fully understand the implications of this quote, it is essential to explore the context of the contemporary American party system and the factors contributing to the polarization of presidents.

In the United States, the contemporary party system is characterized by a deep ideological and partisan divide between the two major political parties, the Democrats and the Republicans. This partisan polarization has been intensifying over the past few decades, leading to a highly contentious and adversarial political environment. The ideological differences between the parties have become increasingly pronounced, resulting in a lack of consensus on critical policy issues and a heightened sense of partisanship among elected officials and the electorate.

In this context, every president is inevitably thrust into a polarized political landscape. The nature of the contemporary party system ensures that a president's policies, decisions, and leadership style will be scrutinized and fiercely debated along partisan lines. This polarization is perpetuated by a variety of factors, including media fragmentation, gerrymandering, and the influence of interest groups, all of which contribute to the amplification of partisan divisions.

Media fragmentation plays a significant role in exacerbating polarization, as individuals are exposed to ideologically aligned news sources that reinforce their existing beliefs and values. This phenomenon, often referred to as "echo chambers," contributes to the entrenchment of partisan viewpoints and a lack of exposure to alternative perspectives. As a result, presidents find themselves navigating a media landscape that amplifies partisan narratives and further fuels polarization.

Gerrymandering, the practice of manipulating electoral district boundaries to favor one party over another, also contributes to the polarization of the American party system. By creating safe seats for incumbents and minimizing the competitiveness of elections, gerrymandering reinforces the dominance of the two major parties and discourages the emergence of more moderate voices within the political landscape. This perpetuates a system in which extreme partisanship is rewarded, further polarizing the political discourse.

Moreover, the influence of interest groups and political action committees (PACs) has contributed to the polarization of presidents. These groups often align themselves with specific parties or ideologies, providing financial support and advocacy for candidates who espouse their agenda. As a result, presidents may feel compelled to cater to the demands of these interest groups, further entrenching partisan divisions and making bipartisan cooperation more challenging.

In light of these factors, Larry Sabato's assertion that "every president is polarizing" can be understood as a commentary on the systemic forces at play within the contemporary American party system. Regardless of a president's individual inclinations or attempts to bridge partisan divides, the structural dynamics of the party system ensure that their presidency will be marked by polarization.

In conclusion, the quote by Larry Sabato encapsulates the inescapable reality of polarization within the contemporary American party system and its impact on presidential leadership. By examining the influence of media fragmentation, gerrymandering, and interest group politics, we can gain a deeper understanding of the systemic forces that contribute to the polarization of presidents. Ultimately, this quote serves as a poignant reflection on the complex interplay of political dynamics in the United States and the challenges inherent in navigating a deeply divided partisan landscape.