Meaning: The quote by Kay Granger, a politician, reflects on the transition of power in Iraq following the removal of Saddam Hussein and the subsequent efforts to establish a new government and draft a constitution. The quote emphasizes the importance of this process as a means for the Iraqi people to define and shape the character of their nation through the principles they choose to uphold.

After the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in 2003, Saddam Hussein's regime was toppled, and efforts were made to facilitate the establishment of a new government that would be controlled by the Iraqi people. This involved the transfer of power from the occupying forces to the Iraqi authorities, as well as the drafting and ratification of a constitution that would provide the framework for governance and the protection of individual rights.

The quote acknowledges the significance of this transitional period, as it represents a critical juncture for Iraq in determining the principles and values that would form the foundation of its new government and society. By emphasizing the role of the Iraqi people in shaping their own destiny, the quote underscores the idea that the character of the nation will be revealed through the choices made in the drafting and ratification of the constitution.

The process of drafting and ratifying a constitution is a fundamental step in the establishment of a democratic and sovereign government. It provides an opportunity for the people to express their aspirations, values, and vision for the future of their nation. The principles enshrined in the constitution serve as a reflection of the collective identity and beliefs of the population, shaping the legal and political framework of the country.

The quote also implies that the nature of the new Iraqi nation will be defined by the principles and values that are upheld in its constitution. This suggests that the constitution is not merely a legal document but a manifestation of the collective will and aspirations of the Iraqi people. It is through the principles embedded in the constitution that the character and identity of the nation will be articulated and realized.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the importance of this process as a means of transitioning from a period of conflict and instability to one of stability and self-governance. By empowering the Iraqi people to shape their own constitution, the quote conveys a sense of hope for a new era of sovereignty and self-determination for the nation.

In summary, Kay Granger's quote encapsulates the significance of the transition of power in Iraq and the process of drafting and ratifying a new constitution as pivotal moments in shaping the character and identity of the nation. It highlights the agency of the Iraqi people in determining their future and underscores the importance of the principles and values that will be enshrined in the constitution as a reflection of the new Iraqi nation.