Meaning: This quote by Russell Baker, an American journalist and humorist, offers a sharp critique of the often hypocritical nature of political decision-making. The comparison between politicians dumping a President due to moral failings and the Mafia bumping off the Godfather for not attending church on Sunday is a satirical commentary on the selective application of moral standards in different contexts.

The first part of the quote, "A group of politicians deciding to dump a President because his morals are bad," is a reference to the frequent occurrence of political scandals involving moral misconduct by public officials. Throughout history, there have been numerous instances of politicians facing impeachment or forced resignation due to allegations of unethical behavior, extramarital affairs, or other moral lapses. The public often witnesses these moral failings being used as grounds for ousting elected leaders from their positions of power.

The second part of the quote, "is like the Mafia getting together to bump off the Godfather for not going to church on Sunday," employs a powerful analogy to highlight the absurdity of holding individuals in positions of authority to moral standards that are often ignored or compromised in other contexts. The comparison to the Mafia, a criminal organization notorious for its disregard of moral and legal boundaries, adds a layer of irony to the statement. The notion of the Mafia enforcing religious observance upon its leader is inherently comical, as it underscores the incongruity of expecting moral rectitude from individuals or groups who operate outside the bounds of conventional morality.

Baker's quote serves as a reminder of the inherent contradictions and double standards present in political and societal judgments of morality. It exposes the tendency of those in power to selectively apply moral principles for their own benefit or to serve specific agendas. The comparison between politicians and the Mafia underscores the perception of political institutions as entities that prioritize self-interest and power dynamics over genuine moral integrity.

The quote also draws attention to the complex relationship between morality and leadership. It raises questions about the public's expectations of moral conduct from their elected officials and the extent to which personal failings should impact a leader's ability to govern effectively. Furthermore, it prompts reflection on the role of morality in politics and whether the public's moral judgments of political figures are consistently applied across different individuals and circumstances.

In summary, Russell Baker's quote offers a thought-provoking commentary on the intersection of morality, power, and political decision-making. Through the use of a striking analogy, he highlights the paradoxical nature of holding leaders accountable for moral failings while acknowledging the often hypocritical and selective nature of such accountability. The quote serves as a reminder of the complexities and contradictions inherent in the moral scrutiny of public figures and the institutions they represent.