" The 2016 election, I’m sure, wasn’t the first one to be hacked; it was just the first one that was made public. "
- Sam Esmail

In simple terms, the statement suggests that hacking during elections has likely been occurring for some time but was only recently acknowledged publicly. It implies a long-standing issue that had previously gone unnoticed or unreported.

Delving deeper into this idea reveals broader concerns about the integrity and transparency of democratic processes. The quote hints at a systemic problem where election interference may be more widespread than initially thought, yet it took specific events to bring these issues to light. This raises questions about accountability and the measures in place for safeguarding elections from external influences or manipulations. It also prompts us to consider how societal awareness and media coverage can play crucial roles in addressing such covert threats to democracy.

Sam Esmail is an American television writer, producer, and director known for creating critically acclaimed shows like "Mr. Robot" and "Homecoming." His work often explores themes of technology, privacy, and the impact of digital communication on society. The quote reflects his interest in the intersection between technological advancements and their potential misuse or unintended consequences within the context of political systems.