My brother Bob doesn't want to be in government - he promised Dad he'd go straight.

The quote by John F. Kennedy humorously refers to his brother Bob (Robert F. Kennedy) and his decision not to pursue a career in government at the time, suggesting that Bob had promised their father to "go straight." The phrase “go straight” is often used to mean living a life of integrity and avoidance of wrongdoing. In this context, Kennedy is implying that Bob initially chose a path outside of government service, perhaps because he wanted to avoid the complications or temptations associated with political life, or perhaps to focus on a more personal or direct form of service.

The humor in the quote comes from the fact that, despite this promise, Robert F. Kennedy later became deeply involved in politics and served as Attorney General under John F. Kennedy’s presidency. The quote captures the familial dynamic and the playful contradiction in Robert’s eventual political career, highlighting that even personal promises or intentions can be overridden by a sense of duty or calling to public service.

The origin of this quote reflects the Kennedy family's commitment to public service and the complex relationships among the family members. The Kennedy family, known for their deep political involvement, often dealt with the pressure of expectations, legacy, and personal decisions. John F. Kennedy's mention of Bob's promise to their father reflects the complex interplay between personal choice and the demands of their public lives.

In essence, Kennedy’s quote touches on the idea of family dynamics and the expectations placed on individuals, especially in a politically prominent family like the Kennedys. It illustrates both the sense of duty in their lives and the humorous reality that even the best-laid plans can evolve as circumstances and responsibilities shift, especially in a family devoted to government and public service.