Meaning: This quote is a humorous and somewhat cynical remark made by John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States. It reflects a certain level of wry wit and insight into the political landscape of the time. The quote is often interpreted as a commentary on the prevalence of corruption and vote-buying in politics, as well as the excessive spending that can occur during election campaigns.

John F. Kennedy was known for his charisma, intelligence, and quick wit. He had a way with words and often used humor to make incisive points about serious issues. This quote is a prime example of his ability to use humor to shed light on the less savory aspects of politics.

The wire mentioned in the quote is a telegram, a form of communication that was commonly used before the widespread adoption of email and instant messaging. It was sent by Kennedy's father, Joseph P. Kennedy, who was a prominent businessman, investor, and politician in his own right. The telegram reflects the elder Kennedy's pragmatic approach to politics and his reluctance to overspend on securing votes.

The phrase "Don't buy a single vote more than is necessary" suggests a pragmatic and cost-conscious approach to securing electoral victory. It implies that some level of vote-buying or campaign spending is acceptable, but only up to a certain point. This reflects a certain level of resignation to the reality of political maneuvering and the tactics used to secure electoral success.

The second part of the quote, "I'll be damned if I'm going to pay for a landslide," is a sardonic remark that highlights the absurdity of excessive spending on an election. It suggests that paying for a victory by a small margin is acceptable, but paying for a "landslide" – a decisive and overwhelming win – is excessive and unnecessary. This reflects a certain level of skepticism about the value of overwhelming electoral victories and the potential waste of resources that can occur in pursuit of such outcomes.

Overall, this quote captures the tension between the idealistic vision of democracy and the pragmatic realities of political campaigns. It reflects a certain level of resignation to the less savory aspects of politics, while also highlighting the absurdity and excess that can accompany electoral competition.

In historical context, this quote is particularly relevant to the political climate of the mid-20th century, when campaign finance regulations were less stringent and there was a greater tolerance for certain forms of political maneuvering. It also speaks to the Kennedy family's understanding of the inner workings of politics and their willingness to engage in the rough-and-tumble world of electoral competition.

In conclusion, this quote by John F. Kennedy encapsulates the wry humor and pragmatic outlook that characterized his approach to politics. It sheds light on the less savory aspects of electoral competition while also highlighting the absurdity of excessive spending and the pursuit of overwhelming victories. As a reflection of the political climate of its time, the quote offers valuable insight into the realities of power and influence in the realm of electoral politics.