In the language of politics, there is only one translation for the phrase 'hope and change,' to wit: 'big, fat government.'

P. J. O'Rourke, a satirical journalist and author known for his sharp political commentary, uses this quote to express his skepticism about the promises of hope and change in politics. These terms, which became widely popular during political campaigns, especially in the context of Barack Obama's 2008 presidential campaign, are often used to appeal to voters' desires for progress and improvement. O'Rourke, however, argues that these seemingly idealistic slogans, when put into practice, inevitably lead to the creation of a big, fat government—a larger and more intrusive state apparatus that imposes more regulations, taxes, and control over citizens.

The quote highlights O'Rourke's belief that political rhetoric around hope and change often serves as a veil for expanding government power. He suggests that while politicians may present these terms as symbols of progress, they often result in an increase in government bureaucracy and intervention. This expansion, in O'Rourke's view, comes at the expense of personal freedoms and economic efficiency, as the state grows larger and more involved in people's lives.

O'Rourke's statement is a critique of the way political promises are framed and implemented. It implies that the government, under the guise of hope and change, becomes bloated and inefficient. Rather than fostering true progress, such political promises often lead to greater government control and interference in areas where free markets and individual liberty might be better served. His words reflect a cynical but insightful take on political messaging and its consequences.

In essence, O'Rourke is warning against the dangers of big government masquerading as positive change. He uses hope and change as buzzwords to illustrate how political rhetoric can disguise the true nature of policy shifts, which in his view, often result in more governmental oversight and less personal freedom. The quote reflects his libertarian viewpoint that excessive government intervention is detrimental to both individual rights and societal progress.