While F.D.R. once told Americans that we have nothing to fear but fear itself, Mr. Ashcroft is delighted to play the part of Fear Itself, an assignment in which he lets his imagination run riot.

Summary

This quote criticizes John Ashcroft, referring to Franklin D. Roosevelt's famous statement that Americans should not fear anything except fear itself. It suggests that while FDR aimed to alleviate people's fears, Ashcroft relishes in spreading fear and uses his imagination to exaggerate threats. The quote implies that Ashcroft is willing to exploit people's fears for his own benefit or political agenda, which contrasts with FDR's message of courage and resilience in the face of challenges.

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