Meaning: This quote by Harry Shearer, a well-known actor, comedian, and political commentator, humorously captures the perception of political parties' self-promotion regarding their leaders. Shearer's statement sheds light on the tendency of Democrats to emphasize the intelligence of their candidates while Republicans tend to highlight the morality of their own. However, he ultimately suggests that seeking moral virtues in the realm of politics is akin to searching for bananas in the cheese department, implying a sense of futility in such pursuits.

The quote reflects the longstanding rivalry between the two major political parties in the United States and the tactics they employ to distinguish their candidates from those of the opposing party. Democrats often tout the intellectual prowess and expertise of their leaders, positioning them as knowledgeable and capable individuals. This emphasis on intelligence is aimed at garnering support based on the perceived competence of their candidates to address complex issues and make sound decisions.

On the other hand, Republicans frequently emphasize the moral character and values of their candidates, presenting them as principled and upright individuals. This focus on morality is intended to appeal to voters who prioritize ethical conduct and traditional values in their leaders. By highlighting the moral standing of their candidates, Republicans seek to differentiate themselves as the party of integrity and virtue.

Shearer's comparison of seeking morals in politics to searching for bananas in the cheese department humorously underscores the incongruity of such an endeavor. The analogy implies that attempting to find moral rectitude within the realm of politics is as futile as looking for a fruit in a section dedicated to dairy products. This wittily suggests that the pursuit of moral virtue in the context of political competition may be misplaced or unrealistic, given the nature of the political arena.

The quote also implies a degree of skepticism regarding the genuine moral superiority of any political party or its candidates. By likening the quest for morals in politics to an absurd mismatch of items, Shearer hints at the inherent disconnect between the lofty ideals of morality and the often contentious and pragmatic nature of political pursuits. This perspective challenges the idealized narratives that political parties often construct around the moral superiority of their own candidates while diminishing the moral standing of their opponents.

In essence, Shearer's quote reflects a jaded yet astute observation of the rhetoric and posturing that characterize political discourse. It serves as a reminder to critically assess the claims and assertions made by political parties and their supporters regarding the intelligence and morality of their candidates. Furthermore, the quote prompts reflection on the nature of political competition and the complex interplay between ideals and practicality within the political landscape.

In conclusion, Harry Shearer's quote humorously encapsulates the tendency of political parties to boast about the intelligence and morality of their candidates, while simultaneously critiquing the notion of seeking moral virtues in the realm of politics. By employing a clever analogy, Shearer challenges the idealized narratives propagated by political parties, prompting a critical examination of the pervasive rhetoric surrounding the character and capabilities of political leaders.