"Now I know what a statesman is; he's a dead politician. We need more statesmen"

Bob Edwards' quote is a humorous take on the function of a statesman. A statesman is a person who is experienced in the art of federal government and diplomacy, and is often viewed as a leader in their field. By stating "Now I know what a statesman is; he's a dead politician," Edwards is implying that statesmen are no longer around, which the world requires more of them. This is a call to action for people to end up being more associated with politics and to aim to end up being statesmen. Edwards is suggesting that the world needs more people who are willing to take on the duty of leading and directing the country. He is likewise indicating that the present political landscape is doing not have in statesmen, and that the world needs more people who want to take on the duty of leading and guiding the nation. By stressing the requirement for more statesmen, Edwards is stressing the significance of having individuals in positions of power who are experienced in the art of federal government and diplomacy.