"And if you like 14.4 percent unemployment, if you like the fact that 70 percent of home mortgages in Nevada are underwater, then stay the course. Vote for Harry Reid"

The quote by John Cornyn is a politically charged statement aimed at criticizing Senator Harry Reid's performance and policies. It was made in the context of an election, where Cornyn uses particular economic signs to encourage citizens versus supporting Reid. Let's break it down:

1. ** High Unemployment Rate **: Cornyn accentuates a 14.4 percent unemployment rate, which he attributes to Reid's policies or management. This is a tactical move to stress financial hardships under the current political management. By highlighting unemployment, Cornyn recommends that Reid has stopped working to develop jobs and stimulate financial growth, calling into question his effectiveness as a leader.

2. ** Underwater Mortgages **: The referral to "70 percent of home mortgages in Nevada are underwater" points to the housing crisis, where homeowners owe more on their home mortgages than their homes are worth. This fact is used to underscore financial instability and economic distress in Nevada, Reid's home state. Cornyn indicates that Reid's policies have not dealt with or reduced these issues, thereby negating his suitability for re-election.

3. **"Stay the Course" and Satire **: The expression "if you like", when introducing unfavorable stats, is a rhetorical gadget utilized to suggest sarcasm. Cornyn suggests that just those who would desire continuing unemployment and housing troubles would support Reid. "Stay the course" is typically used to promote determination, but here it is utilized satirically to recommend stubbornness leading to unfavorable results.

4. ** Call to Action **: By concluding with "Vote for Harry Reid", Cornyn contrasts the negative information with the option of voting. It's a call to action for citizens to select modification instead of connection, implying that a vote versus Reid would be a vote against continued economic challenge.

In general, Cornyn's quote is developed to sway popular opinion by framing Reid's period adversely, thus encouraging voters to think about alternatives in hopes of financial enhancement.