Meaning: The quote by Sidney Blumenthal, a journalist and former aide to President Bill Clinton, reflects on the Democratic party's need to emphasize the decline in progress during the presidency of George W. Bush. The statement underscores the importance of reminding people of the state of affairs before and during the Bush administration to highlight the negative impact and changes that occurred during that time.

Blumenthal's quote suggests that the Democratic party should draw attention to the state of progress that existed prior to the Bush presidency. By doing so, they can effectively contrast it with the situation during and after his tenure. This approach aims to underscore the decline and negative impact on various aspects of society, thereby making a case for the need for change and a new direction.

During George W. Bush's presidency, the United States faced significant challenges and changes across various domains, including foreign policy, the economy, and social issues. The Democratic party, as the opposition during this time, sought to highlight the adverse effects of Bush's policies and decisions. Blumenthal's quote encapsulates the sentiment that it is crucial for the Democrats to remind the public of the repercussions of the Bush era and the subsequent decline in progress.

In terms of foreign policy, the Bush administration's decision to invade Iraq in 2003 and its handling of the subsequent occupation and reconstruction efforts had far-reaching consequences. The repercussions of these actions, including the destabilization of the region and the loss of American and Iraqi lives, were significant. From a Democratic perspective, emphasizing these outcomes serves to illustrate the negative impact of the Bush administration's foreign policy choices.

Economically, the Bush years saw a mix of booms and busts, including the housing market bubble and subsequent financial crisis. The Democratic party aims to highlight the economic downturn and its effects on middle and working-class Americans, arguing that the policies and deregulation under Bush contributed to these adverse economic conditions.

Furthermore, issues related to healthcare, education, and social welfare also featured prominently during the Bush administration. The Democrats seek to remind the public of the state of these essential services before and after Bush's presidency, emphasizing any decline in access, quality, or affordability that occurred during that time.

In summary, Sidney Blumenthal's quote encapsulates the notion that the Democratic party should draw attention to the decline in progress and negative impact that occurred during the George W. Bush presidency. By reminding people of the state of affairs before, during, and after his tenure, the Democrats aim to underscore the need for change and to make a case for a new direction. This approach involves highlighting the repercussions of Bush-era policies and decisions across various domains, including foreign policy, the economy, and social issues, to illustrate the adverse effects and changes that occurred during that time.