Meaning: The quote you have provided is an opinion expressed by the actor Alec Baldwin regarding the outcome of the 2000 United States presidential election. The election in question was a highly controversial and closely contested race between Republican candidate George W. Bush and Democratic candidate Al Gore. The outcome of the election was ultimately determined by a Supreme Court decision, which led to George W. Bush being declared the winner.

Alec Baldwin's quote reflects a widely held belief among many individuals and groups that the outcome of the 2000 election was not a result of a fair and democratic process, but rather a decision that was influenced by political considerations and judicial intervention. The quote specifically refers to the Supreme Court decision that effectively halted the recount of votes in Florida, a key battleground state in the election. This decision ultimately led to George W. Bush being declared the winner of the state and, consequently, the overall election.

Baldwin's use of the term "selected" rather than "elected" is indicative of the belief that the outcome of the election was not a result of the will of the people, but rather the result of a decision made by a small group of individuals in a position of power. The reference to "five judges up in Washington" alludes to the five Supreme Court justices who voted in favor of halting the recount in Florida, effectively securing Bush's victory in the state and the election overall.

The quote also suggests that the decision of the Supreme Court was influenced by partisan considerations, as Baldwin mentions that the justices "voted along party lines." This reflects the perception that the justices' decision was driven by their political affiliations and ideologies, rather than a commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process.

It is important to note that the outcome of the 2000 election and the subsequent Supreme Court decision continue to be the subject of debate and scrutiny. Many analysts and commentators have raised concerns about the implications of the Court's decision and its impact on the legitimacy of the electoral process. The controversy surrounding the election has also sparked discussions about the electoral college system, the role of the judiciary in electoral matters, and the broader issue of electoral reform in the United States.

In conclusion, Alec Baldwin's quote encapsulates a widely held perspective on the outcome of the 2000 presidential election, highlighting concerns about the fairness and legitimacy of the electoral process. The quote reflects the belief that the outcome of the election was influenced by political and judicial factors, rather than being a true reflection of the will of the people. The controversy surrounding the election and the Supreme Court decision continues to be a significant and contentious issue in American politics and electoral history.