"Assassins and presidents invite the same basic question: Just who do you think you are?"

This quote by Sarah Vowell is a thought-provoking comparison in between 2 seemingly unassociated topics. By comparing assassins and presidents, Vowell is suggesting that both of these figures are effective and prominent, which they both welcome the exact same basic concern: who do they believe they are? This quote suggests that both assassins and presidents have a particular level of arrogance and self-importance, and that they both think they are above the law. It likewise suggests that both of these figures have a particular level of entitlement, and that they both believe they are entitled to certain advantages and rights. Eventually, this quote is a reminder that no one is above the law, which everybody should be held accountable for their actions.