Meaning: This quote by Patricia Ireland, an American feminist and former president of the National Organization for Women, reflects her concerns about the potential impact of Dick Cheney's selection as the running mate of then-Republican presidential candidate George W. Bush. The quote suggests that Cheney's selection is indicative of the policies and nominations that Bush would pursue, particularly in relation to the U.S. Supreme Court.

At the time of Cheney's selection as Bush's running mate in 2000, the U.S. was indeed experiencing a closely contested and highly polarized political climate. The Supreme Court, as the highest judicial body in the country, holds significant influence over the interpretation and application of laws, as well as the protection of individual rights and liberties. Therefore, the composition of the Court and the judicial philosophy of its members are of paramount importance to many advocates and activists.

Ireland's reference to the closely divided U.S. Supreme Court reflects the ideological balance within the Court at that time. The retirement or replacement of even a single justice can potentially shift the Court's ideological orientation and impact its rulings on a wide range of issues, including civil rights, reproductive rights, and the balance of power between the federal government and the states.

Cheney, known for his conservative political views, was seen as a figure who would likely support and advocate for the appointment of justices who shared his conservative ideology. Given that the president has the authority to nominate individuals to fill vacancies on the Supreme Court, Ireland's concerns about the potential impact of Cheney's influence on judicial nominations were not unfounded.

During his vice presidency, Cheney indeed played a significant role in shaping the Bush administration's policies and decisions, including those related to judicial nominations. The administration's judicial appointments, including those to the Supreme Court, were closely scrutinized and debated due to their potential to shape the direction of the Court for years to come.

The quote also implies a connection between Cheney's selection and the broader policy agenda of the Bush administration. This reflects a common understanding that the choice of a running mate is often seen as a signal of the presidential candidate's governing style and policy priorities. In this case, Ireland suggests that Cheney's selection signaled a commitment to pursuing policies aligned with his conservative ideology, which could extend to judicial nominations and potentially impact the direction of the Supreme Court.

Ireland's background as an activist and advocate for women's rights and social justice likely informed her perspective on the potential implications of Cheney's selection. Her concerns were shared by many who closely followed political developments and recognized the significance of Supreme Court appointments in shaping the legal and social landscape of the United States.

In conclusion, Patricia Ireland's quote reflects the apprehension of many activists and advocates about the potential impact of Dick Cheney's selection as the running mate of George W. Bush on the policies and judicial nominations of the administration. The quote underscores the interconnectedness of political appointments, policy decisions, and the composition of the Supreme Court, emphasizing the far-reaching implications of these dynamics for the protection of rights and the advancement of social justice.