In simple terms, the speaker suggests that if a business were managed similarly to how President Barack Obama leads the United States, it would likely fail rapidly. The phrase "fiscal cliff" refers to a situation where an economy faces severe fiscal challenges due to simultaneous tax increases and spending cuts, which could potentially lead to economic recession.
The deeper meaning of this statement reflects concerns about the effectiveness of leadership in managing public finances and national policy. By comparing governance to business management, the speaker implies that Obama's approach to handling financial matters is flawed and potentially harmful for the country’s economic stability. This criticism touches on broader debates about government spending, tax policies, and overall fiscal responsibility. The use of a "business" analogy aims to make complex political issues more relatable and understandable by drawing on common experiences with personal finance and corporate management.
The quote was made by Chris Christie, who served as the Governor of New Jersey from 2010 to 2018 and has been an active figure in Republican politics. Known for his blunt speaking style and involvement in various political campaigns, Christie often uses strong language to critique policies or individuals he disagrees with, including President Obama during their respective terms in office.
