Meaning: Tommy Chong, a Canadian-American actor, writer, and comedian, made this quote in reference to his decision to leave the United States during the presidencies of Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush Jr. The quote reflects Chong's disillusionment with the political climate in the United States during these administrations and his belief that the country had regressed in some way. To fully understand the context and significance of this quote, it's important to delve into the political and social backdrop of the times when Chong made these decisions.

During the presidency of Ronald Reagan, the United States underwent a period of conservative resurgence. Reagan's policies emphasized free-market capitalism, reduced government regulation, and a strong stance against communism. These policies appealed to many Americans, particularly those who identified as conservative or Republican. However, they also sparked significant controversy and opposition from those who felt that Reagan's administration favored the wealthy at the expense of the working class and marginalized communities. Chong's decision to leave the country during Reagan's presidency reflects his dissatisfaction with the direction in which he felt the United States was headed.

Similarly, George W. Bush Jr.'s presidency was marked by significant domestic and international challenges, including the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and a polarizing political climate. Chong's decision to leave the country during Bush's presidency suggests that he viewed the Bush administration's policies and actions as further evidence of his belief that the United States had not evolved as he had hoped.

Chong's quote also speaks to the idea of personal instinct and intuition in response to political events. His use of the phrase "my instincts told me it was time to go" suggests that his decision to leave the United States was deeply rooted in his own perceptions and feelings about the state of the country during those times. This sentiment underscores the deeply personal nature of political decisions and the impact that political climates can have on individuals.

Chong's perspective on leaving the United States during these presidencies also reflects a broader trend of individuals considering emigration or temporary relocation in response to political changes. Throughout history, political shifts and social unrest have prompted individuals and families to seek refuge or new opportunities in other countries. Chong's decision to move to France during Reagan's presidency and his inclination to leave during Bush's presidency align with this pattern of response to political change.

Overall, Tommy Chong's quote encapsulates his personal response to the political climates during the presidencies of Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush Jr. It reflects his disillusionment with the direction of the United States during those times and his belief that the country had not progressed as he had hoped. Chong's decision to leave the country during these presidencies and his emphasis on personal instinct underscore the deeply personal nature of political responses and the ways in which individuals navigate their relationship to their country in times of political change.