" If you’re so committed to liberty that you see the Soviet Union as a threat, you’re a Republican. If you’re kind of indifferent to freedom and the level of the lack of freedom in the Soviet Union is just a question of extent and not really threatening to anybody, then you’re a Democrat. "
- Grover Norquist

The quote suggests that one's perception of freedom and threats from countries like the Soviet Union can reveal their political leanings. It implies that those who see significant dangers posed by a lack of freedom elsewhere are more likely to align with Republican values, while those who view such issues as less critical tend towards Democratic viewpoints.

On a deeper level, this quote highlights the divide between Republicans and Democrats over core principles like national security and individual freedoms. For Republicans, threats to liberty abroad can translate into domestic policy stances that emphasize strong defense strategies and an assertive foreign policy. In contrast, Democrats might be more inclined to see international issues through a lens of diplomacy and cooperation rather than confrontation, suggesting a greater tolerance for different forms of governance in other countries.

Grover Norquist is an American political activist known for his work with the Americans for Tax Reform organization, which advocates against tax increases. He has been influential in shaping conservative policy and ideology within the Republican Party. His quote reflects the polarized views on issues such as national security and freedom that are prevalent among different factions of U.S. politics.