Meaning: The quote refers to a pivotal event in American political history, the 2000 United States presidential election. Vincent Bugliosi, a prominent author, is expressing his dismay over the outcome of the election, particularly the controversy surrounding the recount of votes in the state of Florida. The quote highlights the fact that the votes of 60,000 Floridians were ultimately disregarded by the decision of the United States Supreme Court, which had a significant impact on the election's outcome.

The 2000 presidential election between Republican candidate George W. Bush and Democratic candidate Al Gore was one of the closest and most contentious in U.S. history. The results in Florida were particularly crucial, as the state's electoral votes would determine the winner of the presidency. The initial vote count in Florida was extremely close, leading to a mandatory recount. However, the process was marred by controversy, including issues with ballot design and the infamous "hanging chads," which cast doubt on the accuracy of the count.

As the recount progressed, the legal battle intensified, eventually reaching the United States Supreme Court. In a highly controversial decision, the Supreme Court ruled in Bush v. Gore to halt the recount, effectively handing the state and the presidency to George W. Bush. This decision had far-reaching consequences and was met with widespread criticism and debate.

Bugliosi's quote underscores the significance of the 60,000 uncounted votes in Florida and the impact of the Supreme Court's ruling. The author's frustration with the outcome of the election is palpable, as he emphasizes the fundamental injustice of disregarding such a substantial number of votes. Bugliosi's reference to the media counting the discarded votes reflects the broader public outrage and the enduring controversy surrounding the election.

The 2000 election and its aftermath raised profound questions about the integrity of the electoral process and the role of the judiciary in determining election outcomes. The decision in Bush v. Gore continues to be a subject of intense scrutiny and debate, with critics arguing that it undermined the democratic principles of fair representation and the importance of every vote.

Furthermore, Bugliosi's quote serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of the 2000 election on American politics and public discourse. The events surrounding the election and the Supreme Court's ruling have left a lasting imprint on the national consciousness, shaping subsequent electoral processes and reinforcing the imperative of upholding the democratic principles of transparency and fairness.

In conclusion, Vincent Bugliosi's quote encapsulates the profound significance of the 2000 presidential election and the contentious decision by the United States Supreme Court. The disenfranchisement of 60,000 Floridian voters and the subsequent media scrutiny underscore the enduring impact of the election on American democracy and the ongoing debate over the legitimacy of the outcome. The quote serves as a poignant reflection on the fragility of democratic processes and the enduring importance of upholding the fundamental right to vote.