Meaning: The quote "George Bush says what John Kerry did was noble. Yet he sees him being savaged by his own supporters." by Mark Shields, a journalist, refers to the complicated dynamics of politics and the public perception of political figures. In this quote, Mark Shields is highlighting the contradiction between former President George W. Bush's acknowledgment of John Kerry's noble actions and the harsh criticism Kerry faces from his own supporters.

The quote reflects the complex and often contradictory nature of political discourse and public opinion. It suggests that even when individuals from opposing political parties acknowledge the positive actions of their counterparts, the intense partisanship and polarization within their respective support bases can lead to criticism and attack.

George W. Bush's acknowledgment of John Kerry's noble actions likely refers to Kerry's military service and his subsequent anti-war activism. Kerry is a Vietnam War veteran who received a Silver Star, a Bronze Star, and three Purple Hearts for his service. However, after returning from Vietnam, Kerry became a prominent critic of the war, leading the Vietnam Veterans Against the War and testifying before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

The acknowledgment of Kerry's actions as noble by George W. Bush could be seen as a rare instance of bipartisan recognition of a political opponent's integrity and service to the country. Despite their political differences, Bush's acknowledgment of Kerry's actions reflects a certain level of respect for Kerry's military service and his commitment to his beliefs.

On the other hand, the quote also underscores the challenges faced by politicians when navigating the expectations and demands of their own supporters. Despite Bush's acknowledgment, Kerry faced criticism and attacks from his own supporters, suggesting the complexities and pressures of political allegiances and public opinion.

The dynamics highlighted in this quote are emblematic of the broader political landscape, where individuals are often judged and criticized not only by their political opponents but also by their own supporters. This phenomenon underscores the challenges and complexities of political leadership, where individuals must navigate a diverse range of opinions and expectations.

Overall, the quote by Mark Shields sheds light on the complexities of political discourse and the challenges faced by political figures in managing public perceptions and navigating the demands of their own support bases. It serves as a reminder of the intricate dynamics of politics and the often contradictory nature of public opinion.