There is no moral equivalency between those who would kill using children, innocent civilians, children and adults, in their homes and in their places of worship, to that of a government that is seeking those terrorists before they can engage in that awful activity.

In this quote, George Pataki argues that there is no moral equivalency between the actions of terrorists who deliberately target children, innocent civilians, and places of worship, and the actions of a government that is attempting to stop these terrorists before they can carry out their violent activities. Pataki is emphasizing the stark contrast between those who engage in terrorism, using innocent lives as weapons or shields, and a government that is acting to protect its citizens by neutralizing those threats. He believes that the government's actions, even when forceful, are morally justified because they are in pursuit of protecting the lives of the innocent.

Pataki’s statement highlights the concept of self-defense and the ethical duty of a government to protect its people from harm. By contrasting the actions of terrorists with those of the government, he asserts that the two cannot be equated. The terrorists' actions are portrayed as indiscriminate and evil, targeting non-combatants in their homes and places of worship, whereas the government's goal is to prevent further violence and protect the public good. Pataki's words seek to justify the use of force in counterterrorism efforts, asserting that the moral high ground lies with the government.

The origin of this quote can be traced to Pataki's time as Governor of New York during and after the events of 9/11. His tenure was marked by a focus on national security and the importance of protecting the U.S. from terrorist threats. This quote reflects his stance on the war on terror and his belief in the government's responsibility to combat terrorism while upholding moral standards.

Ultimately, Pataki's statement emphasizes the moral justification for government action in the face of terrorism. By comparing the deliberate targeting of civilians by terrorists with a government's efforts to prevent such violence, he defends the necessity of government intervention as a means to protect innocent lives from those who seek to harm them.