"Oh, I don't think Tom Sowell would tell anybody to join the administration. That's not his style. But I think his attitude has always been if it had to be done he'd prefer me to do it than somebody else"

Clarence Thomas is describing the economist Tom Sowell, and his mindset towards joining the administration. Thomas is implying that Sowell would not motivate anyone to join the administration, as it is not his design. Nevertheless, Thomas believes that if it needed to be done, Sowell would prefer him to do it than another person. This suggests that Sowell has a good deal of respect for Thomas, and trusts him to do the task. It also indicates that Sowell is not a fan of the administration, and would rather someone he trusts and aspects handle the role than another person. Thomas is likely indicating that Sowell believes his capabilities and would rather he take on the function than somebody else.