Meaning: The quote "It's not about Obama, it's about the Democrats and their policies that cause consternation on the right" by Elizabeth Sherman, an educator, encapsulates a sentiment that has been pervasive in American politics for many years. The quote suggests that the focus should not solely be on a specific individual, in this case, Barack Obama, but rather on the broader political party and their policies that create concern or distress among those on the political right. This quote touches on several key themes in contemporary American politics, including partisanship, policy differences, and the impact of political figures on public discourse.

When considering the quote in the context of American politics, it is important to acknowledge the deep-seated partisan divisions that have characterized the political landscape. The distinction between the individual and the party is crucial in understanding the dynamics of political discourse. Instead of attributing all concerns or disagreements to a single person, the quote encourages a focus on the broader ideologies and policies championed by a particular political party.

Furthermore, the quote alludes to the impact of Democratic policies on those who identify with conservative or right-leaning ideologies. It suggests that the policies advocated by the Democratic Party are the source of consternation for individuals on the political right. This notion underscores the fundamental policy disparities that exist between the two major political parties in the United States. It also reflects the reality that political disagreements often stem from differences in policy positions rather than personal animosity towards specific individuals.

In addition, the quote raises questions about the role of political figures in shaping public opinion and discourse. While Barack Obama is mentioned in the quote, the emphasis is placed on the broader Democratic Party and its policies. This distinction highlights the influence and significance of political parties as institutions that drive the formulation and implementation of policies. It also underscores the fact that political figures serve as representatives of their respective parties and ideologies, shaping the perceptions and attitudes of the public towards those policies.

The quote also invites consideration of the complexities of political messaging and communication. By directing attention to the policies of the Democratic Party, it suggests that the focus should be on substantive issues rather than individual personalities. This aligns with the idea that robust political discourse should revolve around policy discussions and ideological differences, rather than being dominated by personal attacks or characterizations of individual leaders.

In conclusion, Elizabeth Sherman's quote serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the nature of political discourse and partisanship in the United States. It underscores the importance of looking beyond individual political figures and focusing on the broader policies and ideologies of political parties. By doing so, it encourages a more nuanced and substantive approach to political engagement and debate, rooted in an understanding of the complexities of policy differences and their impact on diverse segments of the population.