Meaning: The quote "Divine right went out with the American Revolution and doesn't belong to the White House aides. What meat do they eat that makes them grow so great?" by Sam Ervin, a politician, reflects a skepticism towards the authority and power wielded by those in political positions. This quote is a critique of the notion of divine right, which historically referred to the belief that a monarch's authority to rule was derived directly from God. However, in the context of the American Revolution, the idea of divine right was rejected in favor of the principles of democracy and the rights of the people.

Sam Ervin, the author of this quote, was a prominent American politician who served as a U.S. Senator from North Carolina. He was known for his role in the Senate Watergate hearings, where he played a key part in investigating the Watergate scandal that ultimately led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon. Ervin's wit and sharp intellect were often reflected in his quotes and speeches, and this particular quote showcases his skepticism towards the concentration of power and authority in the hands of political elites.

The first part of the quote, "Divine right went out with the American Revolution and doesn't belong to the White House aides," suggests that the concept of divine right, which historically justified absolute authority and power, was rejected in the context of the American Revolution. The notion of divine right was closely associated with monarchies and absolute rule, and the rejection of this idea in favor of democratic principles was a significant aspect of the American Revolution. By stating that divine right doesn't belong to the White House aides, Ervin is challenging the idea that those in positions of power should wield authority based on some inherent or divine entitlement.

The second part of the quote, "What meat do they eat that makes them grow so great?" is a rhetorical question that serves as a metaphor for the seemingly unchecked growth of power and influence among political figures. The implication is that there must be some extraordinary source of sustenance or nourishment (symbolized by "meat") that enables these individuals to attain such great power. This can be interpreted as a sarcastic commentary on the accumulation of power and privilege by political elites, questioning the reasons behind their seemingly unchecked authority.

Overall, this quote from Sam Ervin reflects a critical perspective on the nature of power and authority in the political sphere. It challenges the idea of divine right and questions the sources of power and influence held by those in positions of political leadership. Additionally, the use of wit and metaphor in the quote highlights Ervin's rhetorical prowess and his ability to encapsulate complex ideas in succinct and thought-provoking statements.

In conclusion, Sam Ervin's quote serves as a reminder of the principles of democracy and the need to critically examine the sources of power and authority in the political realm. It encourages individuals to question the nature of leadership and to be vigilant in holding those in positions of power accountable. The quote also exemplifies the enduring relevance of historical events such as the American Revolution in shaping our understanding of political authority and the principles of governance.