Meaning: The quote you have provided is from Fred Fielding, a prominent lawyer who served in the White House during the Nixon administration. In this quote, Fielding reflects on the political climate during the Nixon years and compares it to the more recent political landscape. He specifically mentions the term "impeachment" and the differing attitudes towards it during these two periods.

During the Nixon years, the term "impeachment" was indeed a significant and contentious topic. This was due to the Watergate scandal, which ultimately led to President Nixon's resignation in 1974 to avoid facing impeachment and potential removal from office. The impeachment process was initiated by the House Judiciary Committee, and it was a tumultuous and historic moment in American politics.

Fielding suggests that the use of the term "impeachment" in more recent times, likely referring to the period when he made this statement, may have been characterized by a different level of intensity or ferocity compared to its use during the Nixon years. This observation implies that the political climate and the public discourse surrounding impeachment may have evolved or shifted over time.

Fielding's perspective on the political element at work and the use of the term "impeachment" underscores the significant impact of political events and legal processes on the functioning of the government. The term "impeachment" itself denotes a formal process for charging public officials with misconduct and potentially removing them from office, making it a deeply political and legally consequential matter.

In the context of the quote, Fielding's insights may reflect his experiences as a lawyer and a participant in the political and legal spheres during these periods. As an individual who was involved in the legal and governmental processes, Fielding likely witnessed firsthand the impact of political dynamics on legal proceedings and the public's perceptions of such processes.

It is also worth noting that Fielding's reference to the use of the term "impeachment" with varying degrees of ferocity highlights the emotional and charged nature of political discourse. The intensity with which a term like "impeachment" is used can reflect the level of public concern, outrage, or support for the potential removal of a public official from office. Fielding's observation invites consideration of how political language and rhetoric shape public opinion and influence the course of political events.

Overall, Fielding's quote offers a thought-provoking reflection on the intersection of politics, law, and public discourse. It prompts us to consider the historical context and evolution of political processes such as impeachment, and how they are perceived and discussed within the broader societal and political landscape. Fielding's perspective as a legal professional and a participant in the Nixon administration provides valuable insight into the complex and multifaceted nature of political and legal processes.