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About this quote

What does it mean?
Reid praises a man’s father but harshly criticizes the son.
In plain terms
The father is great, but the son is a loser.
What can you take from it?
Personal criticism can be direct and contrasting within the same sentence.

Where it applies

  • public debate
  • personal attacks
  • campaign rhetoric

Putting it to work

  • distinguish between individuals
  • use sharp contrast

Questions to consider

  • When is personal criticism appropriate in politics?
  • How does tone affect message reception?

Another view

Calling someone a loser is subjective and lacks constructive value.

More from Harry Reid

  1. President Bush is a liar. He betrayed Nevada and he betrayed the country... All Americans should be concerned, not just because he lied to me or the people of …

    Permalink to quote #1

  2. RS: You've called Bush a loser. Reid: And a liar. RS: You've apologized for the loser comment. Reid: But never for the liar, have I?

    Permalink to quote #3

  3. The Republicans should not pick this fight. I've been in more boxing rings then all of them combined. And when you throw a punch at me, you end up on the mat.

    Permalink to quote #4

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