Meaning: The quote you provided is attributed to Donald Evans, who served as the 34th U.S. Secretary of Commerce under President George W. Bush. In this quote, Evans is expressing his confidence in the strength of the American economy based on the opinions of economists. He suggests that the majority of economists, whom he believes to be intellectually honest, would agree that the U.S. economy is robust.

Economists play a crucial role in analyzing and understanding the complexities of national economies. Their assessments and forecasts are often sought after by policymakers, businesses, and the general public to gain insights into the current state and future prospects of the economy. When Evans refers to "polling all of the economists across America," he is alluding to the widespread engagement of economists in assessing economic conditions and trends.

The phrase "intellectually honest" used by Evans implies that he believes the economists who are providing their opinions on the economy are sincere, objective, and truthful in their assessments. This suggests that he places great value on the integrity and impartiality of the economists whose opinions he is referencing.

Evans' assertion that "95% of them, 96% of them would say you know we really have got a powerful economy" reflects his strong conviction in the positive outlook of the U.S. economy as perceived by the majority of economists. By emphasizing the high percentage, he seeks to convey a sense of overwhelming consensus among economists regarding the strength and vitality of the American economy.

It's worth noting that the quote is not accompanied by specific data or evidence to support the claim of overwhelming economist consensus. Without further context or details, it is difficult to ascertain the precise basis for Evans' assertion. It is also important to acknowledge that economic assessments can vary based on different methodologies, perspectives, and timeframes.

In the broader context of economic discourse, perspectives on the state of the economy can diverge among economists due to differing theoretical frameworks, ideological orientations, and interpretations of economic data. While some economists may indeed hold an optimistic view of the economy, others might offer more cautious or critical assessments, considering factors such as income inequality, employment trends, fiscal policy, trade dynamics, and global economic interdependencies.

Moreover, the quote does not specify the time period or specific economic indicators to which it refers. Economic conditions are dynamic and subject to change over time, and assessments of the economy can vary based on the specific metrics and timeframes under consideration. Therefore, it is important to approach statements about the economy with a critical mindset and an awareness of the complexities involved in economic analysis.

In conclusion, the quote by Donald Evans reflects his confidence in the strength of the American economy, as perceived through the lens of economist assessments. While the quote conveys a strong sense of optimism, it is essential to recognize the diversity of perspectives within the field of economics and the nuanced nature of economic analysis. Evaluating the economy requires a comprehensive consideration of multiple factors, and opinions on its strength can vary among economists based on their methodologies, data interpretations, and broader economic outlooks.