Consul - in American politics, a person who having failed to secure an office from the people is given one by the Administration on condition that he leave the country.

Summary

This quote is a sarcastic criticism of American politics. It suggests that a consul, which refers to a government official representing a country in a foreign land, is a position granted to a person who failed to win an electoral office but is rewarded with a consolation prize by the ruling administration. The quote implies that these individuals are essentially exiled by being appointed to serve outside of their own country. Overall, it highlights a cynical view of the political appointment process and the idea of rewarding individuals for their failures.