Meaning: The quote is from Erskine Bowles, a businessman and politician who ran for the U.S. Senate in North Carolina in 2002. The quote reflects Bowles' assertion that he is the best candidate to make a positive difference in the lives of North Carolina families, contrasting himself with his opponent, Elizabeth Dole.

Erskine Bowles' statement highlights the core theme of his campaign: that he is the candidate who is most qualified to address the needs and concerns of the people of North Carolina. By positioning himself as the candidate who can bring about positive change for families in the state, Bowles is appealing to voters who prioritize issues such as healthcare, education, and economic opportunity.

In this quote, Bowles not only presents himself as the superior choice but also directly contrasts himself with Elizabeth Dole, his opponent in the Senate race. By stating that Dole is not the candidate best suited to make a positive difference, Bowles is drawing a clear distinction between their respective qualifications, policy positions, and visions for the future of North Carolina.

Erskine Bowles' background as a businessman likely influenced his approach to the campaign and his emphasis on his ability to make a tangible impact on the lives of North Carolina families. His experience in the private sector may have led him to frame the election in terms of who is best positioned to bring about positive change, using language and rhetoric that resonates with the concerns of voters.

The quote also serves as a rallying cry for Bowles' supporters, as he directly appeals to the audience by "submitting" to them that he is the candidate who can truly make a difference. This language is designed to inspire confidence and generate enthusiasm among his base, encouraging them to rally behind his candidacy and support his vision for the future of the state.

The 2002 Senate race in North Carolina was closely watched, as it pitted two well-known and influential figures against each other. Elizabeth Dole, a former cabinet secretary and the wife of Senator Bob Dole, was a formidable opponent for Bowles. As a result, the rhetoric and messaging of both candidates played a crucial role in shaping the narrative of the campaign and influencing voter perceptions.

Ultimately, Erskine Bowles' quote encapsulates the competitive and high-stakes nature of the Senate race, as well as the strategic imperative for candidates to clearly articulate their qualifications and policy priorities. By presenting himself as the candidate best suited to improve the lives of North Carolina families, Bowles sought to connect with voters on a personal and emotional level, tapping into their aspirations for a better future.

In conclusion, Erskine Bowles' quote reflects his campaign's central message and his efforts to position himself as the candidate who can deliver positive change for North Carolina families. By contrasting himself with his opponent and appealing directly to the concerns of voters, Bowles sought to make a compelling case for why he was the best choice to represent the state in the U.S. Senate.