Meaning: The quote by Meg Greenfield, a Pulitzer Prize-winning editorial writer and editor, humorously captures the skepticism and cynicism often associated with politicians and the media's coverage of their actions. The quote suggests that in the face of a heinous act committed by a politician, the initial response from the press or political opponents would not be to condemn the act itself, but rather to highlight the politician's previous statements or positions on the matter.

Greenfield's quote humorously highlights the tendency of the media and political opponents to focus on the hypocrisy or inconsistency of a politician's actions rather than the gravity of the action itself. The implication is that even a serious crime such as matricide would be overshadowed by the scrutiny of the politician's past statements or positions. This reflects a broader sentiment regarding the public's perception of politicians and the media's approach to covering political scandals.

One interpretation of the quote is that it underscores the public's disillusionment with politicians and the media's role in perpetuating skepticism and distrust. It suggests that the public has come to expect politicians to act in self-serving and hypocritical ways, and the media's emphasis on past statements or positions serves to reinforce this perception. The quote also touches on the idea that the media may prioritize sensationalism and political point-scoring over genuine moral outrage or ethical scrutiny.

Furthermore, the quote can be seen as a commentary on the nature of political discourse and the ways in which political opponents and the media engage in character attacks and attempts to discredit their rivals. Rather than engaging in meaningful discussions about policy or addressing the root issues at hand, the quote suggests that the focus often shifts to personal attacks and attempts to catch politicians in acts of hypocrisy.

In a broader context, the quote speaks to the complexities of modern political communication and the challenges of holding politicians accountable for their actions. It reflects a cynicism towards the political system and the media's role in shaping public perception. Greenfield's wry observation resonates with many who feel disillusioned by the state of contemporary politics and the media's coverage of it.

In conclusion, Meg Greenfield's quote humorously captures the pervasive skepticism and cynicism surrounding politicians and the media's coverage of their actions. It sheds light on the tendency to prioritize political point-scoring and sensationalism over genuine moral outrage or ethical scrutiny. The quote serves as a reflection of the disillusionment and distrust many feel towards the political system and the media's role in shaping public perception of political figures.