Meaning: This quote by journalist Gwen Ifill touches on the varying opinions of Howard Dean's political standing in different regions of the United States. The reference to "getting their strokes in the South" seems to suggest that Dean's popularity or acceptance differs based on geographic location. Ifill implies that there is less discontent with Dean's leadership in the South compared to other regions, where there may be more opposition or efforts to remove him from office.

Howard Dean is a prominent figure in American politics, known for his tenure as the Governor of Vermont and his subsequent role as the Chairman of the Democratic National Committee. His leadership style and political positions have evoked diverse responses from different segments of the population, leading to varying levels of support and criticism.

Gwen Ifill, as a respected journalist, is likely commenting on the regional differences in attitudes towards Howard Dean based on her observations and interactions with people in the South and other parts of the country. Her statement reflects the complexities of political perceptions and the influence of regional dynamics on public opinion.

The quote suggests that, at the time of Ifill's observation, there was a relatively lower level of dissatisfaction with Howard Dean's leadership in the South compared to other areas. This could be indicative of a more favorable reception of Dean's policies or leadership approach among certain Southern communities. It also implies that there may not have been significant grassroots movements or organized efforts to oust Dean from his position in Southern states, in contrast to other regions where such movements might have been more prevalent.

It's important to note that political sentiments can be influenced by a wide range of factors, including cultural, historical, and socio-economic differences across regions. The South, in particular, has a distinct political landscape shaped by its unique history, demographics, and ideological inclinations. These factors can contribute to varying attitudes towards political figures like Howard Dean.

In analyzing Ifill's quote, it's also relevant to consider the broader context of Dean's political career and the timing of the statement. Howard Dean's tenure as the DNC Chair was marked by efforts to reshape the Democratic Party's strategy and messaging, which could have generated mixed reactions among different constituencies. Ifill's observation may have coincided with a specific point in Dean's leadership when his impact and reception varied across different parts of the country.

Overall, Gwen Ifill's quote highlights the nuanced nature of political perceptions and the impact of regional dynamics on public attitudes towards political figures. It invites further exploration of the reasons behind the differing levels of discontent with Howard Dean in the South compared to other regions, shedding light on the complex interplay of factors that shape political sentiments in the United States.