[Torie]

I think Lott was trying to explain that if he hired strictly on merit, his staff would be all white. That is the only explanation that makes any sense given that he has one black employee.

[cyncooper]

I think Lott was trying to explain that if he hired strictly on merit, his staff would be all white. That is the only explanation that makes any sense given that he has one black employee.

That is how I interpreted that quote, as well.