For many years, conservative author and commentator Angela McGowan has been involved in American politics. She frequently discusses domestic political and national security topics. One of her most noteworthy remarks was made during a time of increased tensions after September 11, 2001, in response to worries about Islamic extremism.

In this passage, McGowan expresses his belief that the United States might suffer grave repercussions if Republicans lost the 2008 presidential election. Her statement issues a warning about the dangers posed by radical Islamic fascists who may use drastic tactics to further their objectives. These groups would use any means necessary to eradicate non-believers because they view them as enemies.

A metaphor that helps explain McGowan's warning is to picture a house encircled by a forest fire. Those who started the fire may see an opportunity to destroy everything in sight without fear of repercussions if the house's defenders—in this case, Republicans—fail to protect it. Larger-scale chaos and devastation could result from this.

Conservative circles' general worries about the perceived threat posed by radical ideologies are reflected in this statement. McGowan's remarks were a part of a discussion about how political outcomes could impact American citizens' general safety and national security. She conveyed a sense of urgency by implying that some political setbacks might give extremist organizations the confidence to take more violent action against those they consider to be their adversaries.