Meaning: The quote "If Thomas Jefferson thought taxation without representation was bad, he should see how it is with representation" is attributed to Rush Limbaugh, an American radio personality, conservative political commentator, author, and television show host. Limbaugh was known for his provocative and controversial statements on various political and social issues.

In this quote, Limbaugh is making a satirical and critical commentary on the state of representation in modern politics. The phrase "taxation without representation" is a reference to one of the rallying cries of the American Revolution, highlighting the injustice of being taxed by a government in which the taxed individuals have no voice or representation. Limbaugh's statement suggests that even with representation in government, the situation may not necessarily be better.

The quote can be interpreted in several ways. One interpretation is that Limbaugh is expressing skepticism about the effectiveness of representative democracy in addressing the concerns and needs of the people. He may be suggesting that despite the existence of elected representatives, the disconnect between the government and the citizens remains significant. This could reflect a broader sentiment of disillusionment with the political system and the belief that elected officials may not truly represent the interests of the people they are supposed to serve.

Another interpretation of the quote could be that Limbaugh is commenting on the perceived failures or shortcomings of the political leadership at the time he made this statement. It could reflect a perspective that elected officials are not fulfilling their duties to the public, or that they are making decisions that are not in the best interest of their constituents.

Furthermore, the quote could also be seen as a critique of the complexities and inefficiencies of modern governance. The idea that having representation does not necessarily lead to better outcomes could point to the challenges and limitations of democratic systems, especially in a time when political polarization and gridlock are prevalent.

It's important to note that Rush Limbaugh was known for his conservative viewpoints and often used satire and sarcasm to convey his opinions. As such, this quote should be understood within the context of Limbaugh's overall approach to commentary and his specific political leanings.

In summary, the quote by Rush Limbaugh reflects a critical and satirical perspective on the concept of representation in government. It raises questions about the efficacy of representative democracy and the ability of elected officials to truly serve the interests of the people. Whether intended as a humorous quip or a serious critique, the quote invites reflection on the nature of governance and the relationship between the governed and their representatives.