The difference in golf and government is that in golf you can't improve your lie.

The quote by George Deukmejian draws a comparison between the game of golf and government, highlighting a key difference: in golf, a player is not allowed to improve their lie (i.e., alter their position to make the next shot easier), whereas in government, politicians and officials often have the opportunity to shape or manipulate situations to their advantage. Deukmejian uses this analogy to underscore the notion that government, unlike golf, can be influenced or manipulated by those in power to achieve more favorable outcomes, even if it involves bending the rules or shifting the circumstances.

Deukmejian’s comment likely serves as a critique of political maneuvering or the idea that in the political realm, situations can often be "adjusted" to benefit the powerful, something that isn't permissible in the sport of golf, where the integrity of the game is preserved by strict rules. This suggests that in politics, unlike golf, fairness and transparency can sometimes be compromised in order to secure a better position for one's political agenda or personal interests.

The origin of the quote comes from Deukmejian's time as the Governor of California, a period marked by his conservative approach to government and his focus on law and order. As a politician with experience in both public service and law enforcement, Deukmejian was familiar with the dynamics of political gamesmanship and may have used this analogy to express his belief in the need for fairness and adherence to principles, both in golf and in government.

In essence, Deukmejian's quote uses the metaphor of golf to reflect on the perceived corruption or manipulation that can occur in government. The quote suggests that while the game of golf demands honesty and adherence to the rules, the political world can sometimes operate by different, less transparent standards. It calls for a reflection on integrity and the importance of maintaining fairness in the public sector.