Meaning: The quote by Debbie Wasserman Schultz, a prominent American politician, criticizes the Republican candidates for their stance on the auto industry in America. The quote reflects a key issue that has been at the forefront of political debates in the United States - the economy and the future of the country's manufacturing sector, particularly the auto industry.

In the context of the quote, "driving foreign cars" symbolizes a potential scenario where the American public would be relying on foreign-made automobiles due to the decline of the domestic auto industry. This idea of "foreign cars" represents the fear of losing American jobs and the decline of a significant sector of the economy.

The mention of "the auto industry in America go down the tubes" highlights the fear that, under the leadership of the Republican candidates, the American auto industry would have faced a severe downturn or even collapse. This reflects a concern for the potential consequences of policies that may prioritize free-market principles over the protection of domestic industries.

The quote is significant because it encapsulates the ideological differences between the two major political parties in the United States, particularly regarding economic policies and the role of government in regulating and supporting key industries. It underscores the broader debate about the balance between free-market capitalism and government intervention to protect domestic jobs and industries.

In the broader political and economic context, the quote touches on the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, during which the American auto industry faced a severe downturn. The government intervention, particularly under the Obama administration, played a crucial role in rescuing the auto industry through measures such as the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) and the restructuring of major automakers through bankruptcy proceedings. This intervention was a point of contention between the two major political parties, with Republicans generally expressing skepticism about government bailouts and intervention in the private sector.

Debbie Wasserman Schultz's quote reflects the Democratic perspective of the government's role in protecting and revitalizing key industries, particularly in the face of economic crises. It also serves as a critique of the Republican candidates' perceived stance on the issue, suggesting that their policies would have been detrimental to the American auto industry and, by extension, to the livelihoods of American workers.

The quote also resonates with the ongoing debate about globalization and its impact on domestic industries. The fear of "driving foreign cars" signifies the potential consequences of a globalized economy, where domestic industries face intense competition from foreign manufacturers. It raises questions about the balance between free trade and protectionist measures, as well as the implications for domestic employment and economic stability.

Overall, Debbie Wasserman Schultz's quote captures the essence of a critical policy debate about the future of the American auto industry and the broader implications for the country's economy. It reflects the contrasting approaches of the two major political parties to economic policy and government intervention, while also addressing the anxieties surrounding globalization and the fate of domestic industries in an increasingly interconnected world.

In conclusion, the quote by Debbie Wasserman Schultz serves as a poignant commentary on the potential consequences of political decisions regarding the American auto industry. It encapsulates the broader debates about economic policy, government intervention, and the impact of globalization on domestic industries. The quote underscores the ideological differences between political parties and highlights the stakes involved in shaping the future of key sectors of the American economy.