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From The Sunday Times
March 9, 2008
The Clintons, a horror film that never ends
It’s alive! We thought it might be over but some of us never dared fully believe it. Last week was like one of those moments in a horror movie when the worst terror recedes, the screen goes blank and then reopens on green fields or a lover’s tender embrace. Drained but still naive audiences breathe a collective sigh of relief. The plot twists have all been resolved; the threat is gone; the quiet spreads. And then . . .
Put your own movie analogy in here. Glenn Close in the bathtub in Fatal Attraction – whoosh! she’s back at your throat! – has often occurred to me when covering the Clintons these many years. The Oscars host Jon Stewart compares them to a Terminator: the kind that is splattered into a million tiny droplets of vaporised metal . . . only to pool together spontaneously and charge back at you unfazed.
The Clintons have always had a touch of the zombies about them: unkillable, they move relentlessly forward, propelled by a bloodlust for Republicans or uppity Democrats who dare to question their supremacy. You can’t escape; you can’t hide; and you can’t win. And these days, in the kinetic pace of the YouTube campaign, they are like the new 28 Days Later zombies. They come at you really quickly, like bats out of hell. Or Ohio, anyway.
Now all this may seem a little melodramatic. Perhaps it is. Objectively, an accomplished senator won a couple of races – one by a mere 3% – against another senator in a presidential campaign. One senator is still mathematically unbeatable. But that will never capture the emotional toll that the Clintons continue to take on some of us. I’m not kidding. I woke up in a cold sweat early last Wednesday. There have been moments this past week when I have felt physically ill at the thought of that pair returning to power.
Why? I have had to write several columns in this space over the years acknowledging that the substantive legacy of the Clinton administration (with a lot of assist from Newt Gingrich) was a perfectly respectable one: welfare reform, fiscal sanity, prudent foreign policy, leaner government. But remembering the day-to-day psychodramas of those years still floods my frontal cortex with waves of loathing and anxiety. The further away you are from them, the easier it is to think they’re fine. Up close they are an intolerable, endless, soul-sapping soap opera.
The media are marvelling at the Clintons’ several near-death political experiences in this campaign. Hasn’t it occurred to them how creepily familiar all this is? The Clintons live off psychodrama. They both love to push themselves to the brink of catastrophe and then accomplish the last-minute, nail-biting self-rescue. Before too long the entire story becomes about them, their ability to triumph through crisis, even though the crises are so often manufactured by themselves. That is what last week brought back for me. The 1990s – with a war on.
Remember: Bill Clinton could have easily settled the Paula Jones lawsuit years before he put the entire country through the wringer (Jones sued Clinton for sexual harassment alleged to have occurred while he was governor of Arkansas).
Recall: Hillary Clinton could have killed what turned out to be the White-water nonstory at the very outset by disclosing everything she could (the scandal centred on a controversial Arkansas property deal).
Consider: the Clintons could have prepared for primaries and caucuses after February 5 – so-called Super Tuesday, when 24 states held their presidential nomination vote – as any careful candidate would. They chose not to do any of these things. Not because they are incompetent. But because they live to risk.
Politics is also their life. They know nothing else. Most halfway normal people in politics could at some point walk away. Reagan seemed happy to. Not the Clintons. In the words of the American-based British writer Christo-pher Hitchens, these are the kind of people who never want the meeting to end. Hillary Clinton will never concede the race so long as there is even the faintest chance that she can somehow win.
They endure all sorts of humiliation – remember the taped Clinton deposition in the Ken Starr investigation (in which Clinton admitted to the inquiry headed by the far-right prosecutor that he had had an “improper physical relationship” with Monica Lewinsky)? Hillary’s dismissal of the Lewinsky matter as an invention of the right-wing conspiracy? – because they know no other way to live. They have been thinking of this moment since they were in college and being a senator or an ex-president or having two terms in the White House are not sufficient to satiate their sense of entitlement. Even if they have to put their own party through a divisive, bitter, possibly fatal death match, they will never give up. Their country, their party . . . none of this matters compared with them.
The patterns are staggeringly unaltered. Last Thursday The Washing-ton Post ran an article reporting on the almost comic divisions within the Clinton camp: how chaotic the planning had been, how much chief pollster Mark Penn hated all the other advisers, how even in the wake of a sudden victory most of the Clintonites were eager to score rancid points off each other.
The secrecy and paranoia endure too. Releasing tax returns is routine for a presidential candidate. Barack Obama did it some time back. The Clintons still haven’t – and say they won’t for more than another month. Why? They have no explanation. They seem affronted by the question.
When you look at the electoral map if the Clintons run again, you also see a reversion to the old patterns of the 1990s – the patterns that cynical political strategists such as Karl Rove and Dick Morris have been exploiting for two decades. The country – scrambled by the post-baby-boomer pragmatism of Obama – snaps back into classic red-blue mode, with the blue areas denoting Democratic-leaning states around the edge and true red Republican states in the heartlands.
The Clintons are comfortable with this polarisation. They need it. Even when running against a fellow Democrat, they instinctively reach for it. Last week, in response to the Obama camp’s request that they release their tax returns, Clinton’s spokesman called Obama a new Ken Starr. For the Clintons, all Democrats who oppose them are . . . Republicans. And all Republicans are evil.
And evil means that anything the Clintons do in self-defence is excusable – even playing the race card, and the Muslim card, and the gender card, and every sleazy gambit that the politics of fear can come up with. This is how they have arrested the Obama juggernaut. It’s the only game they know how to play.
One is reminded of the words of Bob Dylan: “And here I sit so patiently / Waiting to find out what price / You have to pay to get out of / Going through all these things twice.”
Once again, I want to thank Mr. Sullivan for his measured, well thought out comments. I care so much about what the Obama campaign is all about and at times my emotions make it impossible for me to articulate anything other than some precognitive moans and groans. Thanks again to Sullivan
James Francis Sullivan, Dublin, Ireland
If the Clintons continue with this kind of campaign, the Republicans can be assured of another term in office. Mcain does not have to campaign so hard. He will get the presidency on a silver platter. Ngaah.
ngaah jairus, nairobi, kenya
What's the point? To come off as the eternal smarty pants? Or to brilliantly point out that the Clintons are consummate politicians? Both are assumed facts, long established.
Patrick, Atlanta, GA
Could we just define no homeland attacks? Or did 9/11 pass into the myth of Tiananmen Square?
AB, Sydney, Australia (ex UK)
No, really, keep it up Hillary. Mr McCain needs more time and money, and you will instantly mobilize us Republicans the minute you hit the national stage.
I love you Hillary!
John C, Billings,
There are lots of self interests that Billary knows how to play. I wouldn't be at all surprised if she pulls this off and ends up being the nominee. We would all return to the days when we hated all the politicians. The time when we know things would never change. And back to lobbyists controlling our lives ranging from oil prices to healthcare.
Suresh, San Francisco, CA
Sir, you are reading my mind. I have used the same "unkillable" analogy in recent blogs, albeit using the insipid teen horror movies and the hockey-mask-wearing "Freddie" as my model. You have nailed it. Mrs. Clinton is indeed a "monster", as tagged by an Obama supporter over the weekend, having gotten where she is today on the back of Dr. Frankenstein himself, the ultimate sleazy politician (Iand now doddering old fool), Bill Clinton. The Clintons have no pride, no shame. The goal is all that matters.
Jim Staudt, Avon CT, USA
Bill Clinton's cowardly foreign policy allowed Islamic extermists to believe that they were set to inherit the world, and launch their global jihad in the not totally un-mistaken belief that the west is decadent, pacifistic and lacks the will to win.
Given that these things have now come to a head, do we really need them back in the White House?
Graham in Iraq, Baghdad, Iraq
have you looked at th ewindsors of buckingham palace lately, the yarks always vote for the caidate who looks and talks just out of san quintan.
michael joseph heavey, cahersiveen>adams towns, madness
Excellent op-ed, that.
JoeMac, Los Angeles, California
I often times find Andrew Sullivan just as insufferable as the Clintons, but I have to agree with him on this little missive.
As the dollar continues to drop and energy and food prices continue to rise, there may soon come a day when we look back bewildered and bemused by the fact that we pondered such banal banter about this candidate or that candidate. Bob Dylan also sang:
The line it is drawn
The curse it is cast
The slow one now
Will later be fast
As the present now
Will later be past
The order is
Rapidly fadin'.
And the first one now
Will later be last
For the times they are a-changin'.
KeithB, lahaina, HI
If there is any pyscho-drama here its republicans ond op-ed columnists having a go at the Clintons. this kind of attack is nonsensical and deelpy unfair. If it makes Andrew Sullivan sick to see the Clinton's back its only because he is republican. None of the scandals of the 90s would ahve occured if the republicans hadn't used every trick in the book to defame the Clintons. A smart woman wants to be president and is running a great campaign and winning many states- how that is entitlement is beyond me. Why should Hillary not stand for an election and why is battling on so awful? I'm so sick of this bias and really hope Hillary wins the presidency just to prove that the kind of poison that is heaped on the clinton's has a political price for those who spew it.
raol, London,
It's astonishing how much you can read into the actions of people if you love or hate them enough. My relatives do it to each other all the time.
Ken Leyland, Liverpool, U.K.
I think if you visited/listened in at black churches across America, you might change your mind.
bhodges, drayden, md
Why, if the Clintons just went away quietly into that good night what else would you write about? The Clintons have always been fortunate in the unhinged state their very existence seems to create in their opponents, this column being just one more example. What I can't for the life of me understand is how someone as intelligent as you can perpetrate this falsehood that the Clintons are one-dimensional and inhuman. The Clintons have certainly made mistakes, as politicians do, but you conveniently gloss over the fact that the ridiculous seven-year long and 40 million dollar Kenn Starr witchhunt went nowhere. The objective reality, unpleasant as it may be for you to hear, is that Republicans were out to get them. That you dislike them doesn't make it right. You could write about why it is that the media seem to enjoy demonizing the occupants of the White House, be they Clinton, Bush or Yosemite Sam. But that would be less melodromatic for you, wouldn't it?
Will, Milan, Italy
"A little melodramatic"? Guy, all it's missing is a maiden tied to a railroad track.
The Clintons are politicians, not saints. That Ken Starr spent years and millions to come up with one (marginally) actionable fact, despite his desperate desire for more, pretty conclusively demonstrates that they're not evil blood-sucking zombies, either.
(Oh, and please -- Reagan? "Happy" to leave politics? The man was already suffering from Alzheimer's, though it would be years before he'd admit it. He had no choice but to retire.)
K. O'Brien, New Haven, CT,
In the words of John Dryden, written over 300 years ago:
"In friendship false, implacable in hate:
Resolv'd to ruin or to rule the state.
................................................................................................................So easy still it proves in factious times,
With public zeal to cancel private crimes:
How safe is treason, and how sacred ill,
Where none can sin against the people's will:
Where crowds can wink; and no offence be known,
Since in another's guilt they find their own."
How well he captures the Clintoon's antics.
John Smith, Sugarland, Texas
If JFK or FDR were running today, the Clintons would say they do not have enough experience. For that matter, neither did Bill. The Clintons are what the are - power seekers. I have had enough of their politics of division.
Joey, Oakland, CA
Correction: Christopher Hitchens is a naturalized American citizen of British origin.
paul johnson, Los Angeles, CA
Obama will not be an affective president just like he was not an affective senator. He doesn't know how to play the political game. Is great that he wants a "change", but America has to realize that change is not possible when their is still a congress who will go about with business as usual. Obama will not be able to work with congress and nothing will get done. Furthermore, his inexperience will show running against Mccain because Obama doesn't know what he is doing and will make costly mistakes. The only reason he is ahead is because no one wants Hillary in the white house. I am a liberal democrat, but if Obama is the democratic nominee I will vote for Mccain because I refuse to put another inexperience fool in the white house. The last time America did that, we got bush junior and look how well that turned out.
s, los angeles, ca
Obama has taken a relentless beating for his alleged inexperience and lack of meaningful accomplishments. The beating underlies the greatest coup in this election cycle - i.e. that Hillary has been able/allowed to successfully characterize herself as the more experienced and accomplished of the two candidates. How did this happen and what has she done or accomplished to entitle her to such a characterization?
Randall, Houston, TX, USA
An "accomplished Senator" ????? Just what has Hillary accomplished? Two freshman Senators is a more accurate description; one having a mere few more years experience than the other. Let us not get into whether one of the two is ethically challenged.
Dennis, Bryn Mawr , PA
No third term! No third term! Or it's Chelsea next!
Is it so scary for Americans to choose a new face? If they like dynasties go to Pakistan.
Phil, Hong Kong,
Terrific article, bang on.
Have you considered that Bush junior is the logical extension of the Clinton legacy? More than anything Obama signifies the end of two dynasties who place chicanery and survival above everything. Obama has a dream, and it's not airy fairy. It's a return to a land where the public interest means something.
David, Amstelveen, Netherlands
I won't vote for a "woman" or "black person"....neither attribute qualifies anyone for the presidency. I know Clinton is experienced, but her experience qualifies her for the senate. Any more NAFTA or WTO deals, and we're done for. And yes, Obama is a great communicator....and I believe that is a definite asset. The president has to deal effectively with foreign leaders, and be able to keep the citizenry informed. With his intelligence, I expect him to appoint a cabinet of able, experienced persons.
S. Embers, Saint Louis, MO
The Clintons a horror that never ends? NO WAY! The Bush family is the horror that our country may never recover from. We had good years under Bill Clinton - remember that surplus? Oh, I forgot, we are not allowed to talk about those good years, are we?
Mea, Athens, GA, USA
Where were all of you when people were trying to tell you about the unbounded Clinton ambition in 1992? I guess we all live and learn.
Bob in Memphis, Memphis, TN/USA
My sentiments exactly! Hillary go home--be it Illinois, Arkansas, DC or New York--JUST LEAVE!
As a feminist and a Progressive Democrat, I disdain Hillary's shameless self-entitlement and arrogance. As far as I am concerned, she's been given carte blanche- that's right carte blanche, throughout her campaign. I waited eagerly to learn about her platform and innovative ideas. Wrong. I soon realized that Hillary Clinton is Republican-Lite, and a true Washington Insider who described lobbyists as "regular people" (her words-unbelievable!).
And what a show she's given us! We caught glimpses of her true character when she consistently refused to admit her vote for the Iraq War was a mistake. We have seen Hillary feign indignation when questioned about usurping opponents' ideas as her own. Astonishingly, she continues to ridicule and belittle the victorious nominee Barack Obama, whose base she should be courting to vote for her!. Lastly, she apparently does not possess the moral rectitude to congratulate Barack Obama when he wins a primary or caucus. Woman or man, I have never and will never vote for such a candidate.
The future is now. A noted author once said: "What is past is prologue". America has witnessed this "prologue" throughout this race, and it is a foreboding one. The question now is: Does Hillary Clinton have the courage and selflessness to put America first? The following quote expresses it best:
Moral courage is a more rare commodity than bravery in battle or great intelligence. -Robert F. Kennedy
Helena Roberts
Santa Ana, CA
Helena, Santa Ana, CA, USA
It's the Rasputin campaign - do we need a Russian consult?
Maggie Rheinstein, McLean, VA
Hillary Clinton is the closest thing to Lady Macbeth since Shakespeare.
John, Glastonbury, CT
Was curious about the author calling himself an "academic," until I looked it up in the dictionary and read, "very learned but inexperienced in practical matters" and "having no practical or useful significance." Guess that about sums it up!
Suzanne, Miami, Florida
I'm really sick of the thought of a Bush, Clinton, Bush, Clinton dynasty continuing if Hillary is elected president in November 2008. I can't vote for her, Obama or McCain. I wish there was a candidate running for president who would represent we the people. Wouldn't that be nice.
John Girvan, Seattle,
It's people like Sullivan who make it dreadful for the rest of us who end up reading his constant attacks on the Clintons. This from a guy who voted for bush and seemed to have disappeared from critical assessment of this selected leader - where was the reporting on bush over all these years? Illegal war, torture, economic meltdown, spying on US citizens, educational system left to his brother's corporation - it goes on and on. Yet Sullivan wants to bemoan the Clintons for any and everything. You no longer have credibility as a journalist as far as I am concerned - the battles you pick are shallow compared to what your man has wrought upon our country.
Nancy, Clearwater,
Why don't they just go away. Why would Americans even consider putting these two back in the White House? Eight years was enough. NO MAS!!!!!
Bruce L. Northwood, Washington, D.C., USA
wow where do i start. i am sick and tired of the monarchy system that the american people through apathy has allowed to be created i am lost on who to vote for in the upcoming election. i feel it is my obligation to vote for someone. maybe i will vote for a third party candidate. i am proud to be an american that has and continued to live within my means. i am disenfranchised. if we elect clinton to office we deserve to be thrust into an imperial form of government!!! we have lost our government for the people by the people. get informed and vote for someone other than HILLARY!!!! she should be tried for treason, read teh book "dereliction of duty"
Jody, Fort Myers, Florida
Sorry but (as you do give some credit to Newt I won't yell at you) I disagree with Clinton's psyche as you paint it. I made that singular, because you were talking mainly about BIll. I don't think you can draw those conclusions from the evidence at hand. What you should remember is he (with her help) pulled the party to the center, in keeping with the wishes of the electorate, and for whatever reason, we had eight pretty damn good years with Bill at the controls. But more than that, I know from listening to her that she is a brillant administrator. She is also tough. I don't want someone learning on the job in these times. I don't want someone who has to learn about diplomacy especially. (Barack obviously doesn't understand protocal) I don't want a lightweight running the free world. SO far I can see what Hillary's pluses and minuses are and for me, they are all better than the greenhorn from Chicago with the big smile, and the MLK speeches...
Judy Lavendar, Woodstock, New York, USA
Is this really Andrew Sullivan? I thought he and the Clinton's were joined at the hip. I can't remember when I agreed with anything Mr. Sullivan said but this time he hit the nail on the head. I actually voted for Mr Clinton in 1990, the staunch conservative that I have always been, because I made the mistake of believing he would bring a new atmosphere to DC. If only I had known what the people of Arkansas had known for a long time. The sooner these two fade away from the political arena, the better it will be for the rest of us ... Democrat or Republican ... liberal or conservative. Don't we deserve better than this?
Thomas, New Braunfels, Texas
Excellent. As it has been said, now the Dems know what the Repub's went through in the 90's. The Clintons are the price the Dems had to pay to win the presdiency in '92, but it cost them the Congress for years. Finally some grown-ups in the party have said "enough is enough" and have promoted Obama. He has done an incredible job, and even though polls show him beating McCain, many of us conservative Republicans want him to win the nomination to just be rid of the Clintons, at least for this go round.
Jonathan Palmer, New Palestine, IN
I think Obama should start making it clear to Hillary that she should get on HIS VP list before it gets too long. Not that he should ever seriously consider her as a running mate; but let's see how she likes it.
Bob Borquez, Brentwood, TN
Hello Mr. Sullivan,
I'm an old 60's radical. The politics of 40 years ago, freedom of thought, freedom of speech, freedom of conscience, seem to qualify me as a conservative today.
However, there is something we absolutely agree on and that is the Clintons. They have absolutely no apparent concern for the good of the U.S. They want to win at any cost.
Dr. Jeff, Los Angeles, California
It should also be added that jealousy towards good work would always be present. All this shows how professionally strong the Clintons are, and that people have to use irrelevant issues to attack them. Good luck Hillary!!!
Anne , LA, USA
Yes, we all know the modus operandi of the Clintons by now. The real question is why such tactics tap into a sustainable percentage of the electorate when any one of their numerous reckless acts would have sidelined most politicians ages ago. By the way, Hillary was opposed to almost all the achievements you named, precisely because Gingrich came up with them, but she had been sidelined by the Healthcare fiasco (caused by another "right wing" conspiracy within her own party) before the republicans took both houses in 94 and pushed them through.
Jackson, Coumbus, OH
Making suggestions as to diferent paths the Clintons could have taken is silly, especially since WJC is about 5 times smarter and more politically astute than anyone making such suggestions, and because you weren't privy to ALL the facts at the time Mr. Sullivan.
That being said, you do have an interesting outlook. Much more realistic than most Repubs.
doug, laguna niguel, ca
Great article! The Clinton's have one thought in mind, "The end justifies the means." Whatever it takes to get the power is what they do. I think the people that support the Clintons should take a look at their character. Does character mean anything to anyone anymore?
Dennis Davidson, Houston, TX
Bravo, Andrew Sullivan! This is one of the most perceptive and insightful political columns I have read in a very long time. Keep up the great work!
Toni Ermini, Burbank, California, USA
The saddest thing about this entire election year is how far the Clintons have fallen from grace, yet they don't seem to grasp this reality. Andrew hit the nail on the head- Bill Clinton was a very effective president- a centrist with fiscal sense and prudent foreign policy- yet the personal choices of the Clintons were both and disturbing. Yet I still gave them the benefit of the doubt based on how well the eight years went when Bill ran the country. Today, however, is a different story. Hillary can dub her attack on Obama as the "kitchen sink" approach but when Obama states he is going to ramp up his criticism of her, he is labelled as another Ken Starr. Bill indirectly stated Obama only won in South Carolina because the voters there also voted for another black candidate in years past. They are now playing dirty politics, and that is something that I cannot stand, no matter how much I approved of his presidency. It is totally disappointing.
Jimmy Williams, Derry, NH
great article...!!
tico perez, miami, usa/florida
beside being true, very well written.
charles rittmeyer, pittsburgh, pa.
I find the article and comments only demonstrate my long held belief in the ability of Democrats to demonstrate hypocracy and the eager willingness to eat their own. HRC could do no wrong for so long, only to be thrown under the buss so readily, by those who loved her so.
Keith Marshall, Mesa, Arizona U.S.A.
The Clinton's? The devil you say? I say bring'em back! They're really the most fun politicians to watch. When will Bill, how can I best put it, fall off the wagon? Will Hillary release WH attack dogs after inviting Republican congressmen over for a sit down talk about heathcare? That would be fun.
And let's not forget these two brothers! Hugh and what's his name...Rodger? This is the kind of comic relief the country will need now that we are in a recession.
But dear god, I do hope this is the last of the boomer presidents. I don't know if the republic can withstand many more. I hope the younger generation is paying attention...and doesn't grow up to be like their parents. BTW kids, don't trust anyone over 30...really.
Dennis, Ada,
Sue T., Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Firstly what Andrew is pointing out in this article is something which the MSM is ignoring, congrats to him for plucking up the courage to address this huge issue. Secondly Hilary Clinton has tried over and over again to dig up dirt on Obama, i think its only fair her skeletons are uncovered for the world to see aswell. Thirdly, apart from loyal Bush supporters, theres not many people in the US who do like Bush, so it would make no sense to talk about his corrupt government when Andrew is talking about the presidential candidates for 2009. Bush is history come January.
Lastly and MORE importantly - Hillary clinton said last week that Mccain and herself have a "lifetime of experience" to answer that 3am phone call and Obama had a 2002 speech, what she has done is given her support to McCain over a fellow democrat, and McCain is another Bush so really Clinton has contradicted herself in opposing Bush, then endorsing McCain!!
it makes no sense.
Clare, new york, NY
You put it brilliantly andrew, great article.
Clare, new york, NY
Bill is already passing out ~his BIG BIG cigar's...
and Bush~ will be there to get the very first one...
Wake up America... for the sake of all our Children...
Stephen Friend, Austin, TX
GW had no responsibility in 9/11
perhaps people in NZ...should stick to debating NZ politics.
David King, decatur, Alabama
While I agree that the post by the person in NZ shows an astounding lack of knowledge about the background to 9/11, so does the comment "GW had no responsibility in 9/11".
Are you suggesting each country can only discuss their own politics? You mean like leaving Iraq to sort themselves out...oh hang on
Steve, London, England
Brilliantly stated, Andrew!
Kim, Annapolis, Maryland
Thank you for printing this. So true about these career politicians.
Jena, Chicago, IL
Once upon a time in America, we cared about competence in office, skill in passing useful legislation and private lives were private.
Imagine Andrew's columns if FDR or JFK were the presidents in this day and age -- at a time when it is considered somehow fair for political opponents to attack the private lives of their presidents and to think of the electing of a president as a soap opera.
I took a hard look at the candidates in a very dangerous world made incredibly worse by a fellow who does not cheat on his wife and with whom everyone wanted to have a beer. And decided to support Hillary who among the remaining candidates will make the best president in this world at this time.
Validating what the Repubican attack machine--well documented and well funded--did to the Clintons is beneath you. Using it as a rationale for supporting a candidate who talks a good line --but with little in his background or record to indicate he can back it up (Obama)islousy reasoning.
Linda Weiss, Corinth, Vermont
Scared is what I am....I'm starting to contemplate a write - in for Obama in November if all the scare tactics the Clintons use actually work and she gets the nomination.
Seriously, this last ploy of hers to the Mississippi folks that they should vote for her because there is a chance she "might" have Obama as her running mate. If they fall for that load of crap...well, there is no limit to Billery's guile.
Catherine, San Luis Obispo, USA CA
I agree with the article completely. However, the bigger picture is that our USA has been hijacked by the elite and it doesnt matter who is elected they will be manipulated into fulfilling the agenda of the elite. Keep us afraid so that we think we need Governmental protection. Terrorism is a joke. Hillary is a joke, McCain is a joke, Obama sounds good but I highly doubt he can get anything done if elected. Ron Paul had the right philosophy but people are to afraid of being responsible for their own lives.Our nation is corrupt. Look back throughout history and see that people are killed off if they go against the elitist agenda. (John Lennon, JFK, JFK jr., Martin Luther King Jr, Black panther leaders, etc etc.) they were all threats to govermnetal elitest control and power. Elitists dont want Peace because there is no money in it. Whatever you do. dont let them implant you with an RFID chip. thats their goal like it or not. GOD is great and there is none else!
Trav, Detroit, MI
Clintons, Bushes,........there both the same. one fights agianst the other. Divide the people and then you cna control them. We are suckers letting the elitists control our lives and the drama of it all is what draws us in and keeps us from realizing what really going on. Ron Paul is the only true American leader but Obama is the next best thing. Hopefully he doesnt fall prey to corruption and greed.
Trav, Detroit, MI
Excellent article that I shall pass along to many.
I don't get the support of these two at all other than people want the power back just like Cheney and Rumsfeld.The thought of them back at 1600 Pennsylvania is chilling.
Reading this article made me feel not alone as I too have the same feelings and have to turn off the news and just listen to some fine music. It tears me apart.
All these years of Bush and what he has brought on the country and the world and if people don't wake up it will continue whether it is Hillary or McCain!
I think people take their votes too personally rather than standing back and putting the country first. If you truly put the country first it is a no brainer.
Jean, Anderson, IN. USA
This is what Republicans have been telling you for years.
Stefan Meyers, Dallas, Texas, USA
I hate the Clintons. Their arrogance is unbelievable. The most condescending self-aggrandizing human beings in America.
Lowell, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Thank you for writing this article!!
Kristin Thomas, Longmeadow, MA
It's hard to separate the hullaballo of show biz and personality associated with the election of a Democratic nominee. One thing sits out like a sore toe. The media are biased and unquestioning of Obama and what he does and his holier than thou approach to politics. And they grill and judge Hillary because of Bill and her 'unfeminine' qualities as a woman. So. The question is Who would you want fighting in your corner when the chips are down and the world seems against you? The answer - the real fighter in the race. Hillary Clinton. A real and typical woman!
B.Ward, London, england
Barack Obama supporters have often used the term "Clintonian" to belittle Hillary and Bill Clinton as a politicians that will do or say anything to get elected. I believe Clintonian tactics are being employed by Obama in attacking John McCain over the defense contract for the new Air Force fuel tanker.
This case is very simple. Boeing Company (BA), based in Chicago, illegally lobbied and bribed an Air Force official and was awarded a sweet heart deal for a very lucrative Air Force contract. Fortunately, the misconduct was exposed. The Air Force official, Darleen Druyun, and a top Boeing manager both went to prison and the CEO of Boeing, as well as several high ranking Pentagon officials ended up resigning over the scandal. John McCain essentially forced the Air Force to review this tainted contract and the Air Force eventually awarded the deal to Northrop Grumman (NOC), an American defense contractor headquartered in California.
Andrew Ferraro, Skippack, PA
You must be delusional if you can find reasons to still support Bush. The economy is in the toilet, Iraq has become a multi-trillion dollar disaster, America has lost its moral superiority perhaps permanently, and no matter what some say we are not safer. Bush is beside the point here though. Hillary's mood and campaign strategies have changed so drastically and so often that I neither want her answering the phone at 3 am nor talking to foreign leaders. I find it sad that her fear tactics and crocodile tears have as much impact as they do. I guess America really is that thick. I thought Bill Clinton made a great president but I do think he was in the right place at the right time politically. Bill may have been a scandal magnet, but compared with Bush he was a saint.
Fantastic column. Thanks for posting.
Evan, Charlotte, NC, USA
Terrorism is sliding from the public's top concerns and is being replaced by economic concerns because the surge has worked and Iraq is in the latter stages of becoming a stable, independently run democracy. The economy will turn around, too and then the American public will find something new to be worried about. Sometimes the American public needs to step back and appreciate everything we have in this great nation. Our "problems" are laughable to most of the rest of the world!!
Marty E, Robinson, Texas
Thank you for the well written article Mr Sullivan. I am so sick of these Clinton's and their self righteous and divisive politics.
Good luck to Mr Obama in trying to wrest away power from this odd couple.
Please, please come November look at what's at stake for our country and the world before you vote. Leaving the Middle East will not be in our best interests and both candidates have stressed that they would leave creating a vacuum that the Iranian's will truly exploit.
Joseph A. Perez, Tracy, U.S.A. California
In almost every political speech we hear about "the children, the American people, playing by the rules and fair play". Michigan and Ohio blotted their copy book by wanting to be Me First in the Primary dance, thereby breaking the rules. So, instead of having to "play by the rules" and being grounded so to speak, Mom and Dad are looking for a way around the rules they themselves made. Isn't that a fine lesson to teach "the children and the American people". Ah, the Clintons, winning at any cost. Just think, Bill and Hill back in charge. Somebody pass me the barf bag.
Carol Densmore, Findlay, Ohio
Carol Densmore, Findlay, Ohio
I find the definition of democracy interesting in the USA
You only allow some states to vote for who is to run for the top job because there is only one person left before all the states can vote some states must never had the chance to vote.
At least this is making this pair work for it and see what they are made of
knight, aberdeen, uk
So the author is bothered more by the personal, financial and sexual responsibility of individuals than by a corrupt administration that aggressively started an unwinable war that's killed tens of thousands of human beings - an administration that's ruined our economy and allowed the greed of the oil industy to dictate our domestic and foreign policies. Is receiving a b.j. worse than causing death? I guess if it's given by a woman!
Sue T., Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Hillary could have done this, Bill could have done that. Ken Starr and the Republicans could have forgone their witch hunt. Andrew Sullivan is the new Ken Starr. Nothing came of it Andrew, you are the horror film that will not die. Evil? You sound like George W. Bush!
Troy, Richards, Texas USA
I have always been truly amazed at all the Cliton apologists, standing up for and defending this elitist couple for almost two decades now. I have long postulated that their story is similar to the story of the Emporor's clothes. Their efforts have been directed at destroying anyone who dares to tell the truth about them. When it comes to being devious, conniving, and subscribing to dirty tricks Richard Nixon is a piker compared to the Clintons. Finally, the blinders are coming off and more and more people are seeing them for who they truly are, uncaring, arrogant, and power hungry individuals who will stop at nothing to obtain what they feel is their lifelong entitlement, and damn those who get in the way.
Steve, Waterford, MI
What nastiness you spew. Hillary has never done anything that I know of except stay married to a philandering husband, who was otherwise a president many would be glad to have instead of what we've had to deal with the last 7 years. Really, can you even begin to weigh the human damage done by the Bush Administration against a roving eye? Most men in power can't keep their pants zipped, so stuff it. It's all about power and who wants to keep it. I hope those who villified the Clintons choke on their desire for power; just lust of another kind, isn't it?
We need some work done, for the 99.999 percent who aren't wealthy, do you mind?
Penny K, Westminster , Colorado
bill and hillary are sickening and frightening. so are the bushes.
james, tulsa,
Thank you very much! Now this is the experience Hillary brings to the white house; drama, secrecy, playing the vicitim card. Why don't the women remember?
A 55 Year old white woman,
T Chapal
Tara Chapal, Hendersonville, NC
These two people are loved and honored throughout the world except by morons in the US. Bill Clinton was one of the best presidents we ever had. He did not invade a country, our economy was on the rise and we had a budget SURPLUS. So he had sex. Big deal. The constant harassment by the Republicans they had to put up with was an enormous waste of taxpayer money. Bush and his pals should be in jail for what they have done. Talk about criminals. Clinton lied and was impeached. What kind of punishment have you lined up for Bush for his violations of the US constitution, torturing people and making everyone in the world hate us.
lindyf, West Windsor, NJ
What sealed it for me was Hillary say the most important thing was that we win in November. The most important thing should be Our troops or our economy or the welfare of the American people. That is just unexcusable and a sign of her character.
Jim R., Buffalo, NY
We can all say, with certainty...
that we have seen the face of evil,
its name is Clinton.
We simply cannot return to those days.
Ever!
D. Winkler, Clintonville, USA/Wisconsin
The Clintons are crooks and are beloved by the crooks and ignorant who make up the Democratic party. It's hard to believe where we have gone as a country since WWII. We are on a very steep downward spiral, and like Rome, Greece, Ottomans, etc. we will become an "also was" power.
El gato, Bloomington,
When I hear all the polls, etc. which tell us the concerns of Americans today, I am dismayed that terrorism has lost its number 1 spot. We are all buying into the sliding economy hysteria which is being driven by a lot of people who overextended themselves in the housing market. I think people have to remember that Osama Bin Laden could have been taken down by Clinton, but he was too busy chasing his urges about town, and didn't have the courage to act as it may have affected his poll numbers. On the other hand we have Obama who doesn't even have the courage to cast a vote on anything in the state of Illinois. Excuse me, but voted 130+ times present is not what I call leadership. These people, and the democrats in general are dangerous to this country and need to be stopped. Say what you will about George Bush, but he at least has the courage of his convictions and is not constantly living or dying by the polls, he does what he needs to do to keep us safe..haVe we been attacked?
Vanessa Totten, Clinton, Illinois
Why does the meeting not ask Hillary the tough questions?
Such as:
What involvement did the Clinton Administration have with Pakistan and the Khan Scientist connection? What did they have to do with Butto.. They really screwed all this up during the Clinton years..Why is Sandy Burger now part of her campaign... he should be in jail for staeling and destroying pentagon original papers that describe clinton failures with preventing 911...the ist goes on and on... release your tax record and the fund rasing $$ gotton because of presidential pardons... wake up Americans...ypu are all asleep.
Howard Peterson, North Hollywood, CA
Very well said. Why can't we read this in the mainstream press?? Democracy is information and judgement.
Mike C., Annapolis, Md.
I love the way people from other parts of the world love to chime in and tell us how screwed up our political system is. Have you taken a look at your own countries lately? Talk about the pot calling the kettle black?
For your information New Zealand " Bush" had only been a President for a short period of time. If anybody should take a major part of the blame for Osama it is Clinton. If he would have kept his mind more on the terrorist problem rather than his oral gratification we might never had 9-11. I am far from a Bush fan but if you are going to call someone an idiot get your rhetoric right. Don't spew ignorance. Clinton was the idiot.
The Clintons have prolonged and screwed up more things in this country more than anybody. I guarantee you if Hillary wins this country will go farther down the toilet than it already is.
The Clintons are pure evil. Don't take my word for it check it out yourself.
We need new political blood. Three parties and less outside opinion.
Dr. Harden Stuhl, Washington DC., USA
What a great article. It certainly defines the feelings of many of us. Except that I dont get cold sweats when thinking of the Hilters. Just continuous nausea and a rush to get my passport.
Joe, Salt Lake City, Utah/USA
All I have to say is "AMEN".
Beverly, Union City, GA
A truer column hasn't been written. As a registered Democrat (recently switched from Independent so I could support Obama), I am so sick of the Clintons that I could scream - and often do.
Make them stop! Please. They are self-centered, abusive and treat the Democratic Party as their own entity to do with as they please.
What they don't realize, or don't care about, is that they, indeed, are splitting the party. I will vote for anyone other than Hillary in November. I think she even realizes there are many such as I, and that's why she keeps hinting at a joint ticket with Obama in an attempt to keep the party together.
For me, it won't work. I'll hold my nose and cast a ballot for McCain rather than see another Clinton White House. They simply wear me slick.
max evans, Shawnee, Kansas
Silly, naive Queen....
"When you look at the electoral map if the Clintons run again, you also see a reversion to the old patterns of the 1990s – the patterns that cynical political strategists such as Karl Rove and Dick Morris have been exploiting for two decades. The country – scrambled by the post-baby-boomer pragmatism of Obama – snaps back into classic red-blue mode, with the blue areas denoting Democratic-leaning states around the edge and true red Republican states in the heartlands.
The Clintons are comfortable with this polarisation."
Remove Clinton from the equation and replace it with Obama, the nastiness of the rhetoric against him from the Rove-bots will be flavored the same and the red-state, blue-state scenario will be the same...
Once again, Ms Andrews bile (Rove-botish) is the same.
TMas, NYC, NY, USA
Chris in Belfast,
Most over here in the States know she is full of it. But none of that matters. Votes here are either straight down party lines, or on emotion, or which way the wind blows. Having lived in the UK and in the States, it is amazing how little character, accountability, and issues play a part in elections here. It is "American Idol" for the masses.
Scott, NC and UK,
The Clintons are ugly people. I'm not talking physically, but emotionally, psychologically, spritually, VERY UGLY PEOPLE
Like Sullivan, I'm EXHAUSTED with what they do to this country.
To hell with the Bush and Clinton regimes. Let's start over new, McCain and Obama at least offer the promise of that.
Tony V, Chicago, IL
Editor,
Bringing back the draft seems inevitable, and Hillary
Clinton, in a recent candidate forum, said women should
be drafted too. Feminists believe in a gender-neutral
army and Hillary's presidency would doubtless achieve
it. Dessing my girls in khaki and sending them to
places like Iraq is not a victory for women.
Herb, Poughkeepsie NY
Herb, poughkeepsie,
Talk about no substance, this entire article is no substance. Yes Hillary could have avoided the whitewater nonsense if she had cooperated with the Republican witch hunt from the start. What kind of nonsense logic is that? "Yeah, we spent millions of dollars and wasted everyones time but you did not help us attack you unfairly so it is all your fault. "
Rediculous partison hatred.
Anyone who says they get physically ill at the thought of Hillary in power is clearly consumed by the irrational right wing hate machine.
John, Atlanta, GA
You don't hear or read the truth from the media in the USA because they are a part of the Clintons" Machine." If you really want to know about the Clintons then google The Clinton Chronicles and watch this documentary of just when he was governor of Arkansas. Cold, deceptive, draft dodging, murdering liar is what Bill Clinton is and Hillary knew about it all. She is after power and she is a very cold and calcultating woman with absolutely no scruples. Not someone I would want representing me and leading my country. People please look into the truth about these people before it is too late. The deficit and problems in the Bush administration is not their fault. It is the aftereffects and end results of the Clinton administation and the good people think they did in their 8 years were the aftereffects coming into play from the Bush administration before them. Why can the American people not understand this? Very well said Mr. Sullivan and keep up the good work.
Martha Martin, Lindsay, Oklahoma
If Obama and Hillary's numbers were reversed, the Clintons would be asking Obama to drop out. And what of this Clinton talk of Obama as a vp on her ticket? Doesn't this sound like "back of the bus" once again? It must not happen! I am a woman in my 70's, Republican all my life. Last week my husband and I reregistered as Democrats here in PA so we can vote for Obama.
Ruth, Whitehall, PA
There is not one patritic bone in either Hillary nor Bill Clinton's body. It is all, all, all about them.
Dr. Dave, Opelika, AL
Andrew, it's just a relief to know someone out there sees it the same way and has the courage to say it. The Billary team is a terrifying and sorry spectacle which the MSM is featuring as the most grotesque reality television. I am, like you nauseated. Nauseated at them and the possibility that they might connive to steal the nomination and the U.S. will have missed the opportunity to elect a great president such as Sen.Barack Obama. I have an indescribable sense of despair and I am hard put to understand how anyone would support them or consider electing them.
Ceci, NY, NY
Dems are so naive. The Republicans do not want to go up against the Clintons. Why? Because the Clintons will kick there ass again. How else can you explain the hatred that the Republican have for the Clintons. Think about it. Since the sixties, there has only been one democratic president who lasted 8 years, Bill Clinton and the GOP hates him for it. How many GOP presidents have lasted 8 years? Nixon, Reagan,Bush2. The GOP will never forgive the fact that the Clintons could play dirty politics better than the can.
Greg Gwynne, Hamilton,
If Obama cannot sustain the attacks from Clinton's camp then he will stand no chance against McCain where he will be absolutley crucified. I Obama can't win convincingly against CLinton I think it spells disaster at the next election. Further, even if Obama doesn't win the ticket everyone seems to think he will be banished; career over. Not so. If the Democratic party thought long-term they would be thinking, Clinton 8 years and Obama for the following 8. 16 years without Republicans..... Now that's change.
James, Leeds, UK
How can anyone even state he or she is or was a lifelong fan of Bill Clinton? That man was rotten to the core 'way back when he
was in High School, and probably before that. He and his wife both, check out her from the time she was in College, to the present--terrible!
stumpy766, knoxville, tn
Anyone seen the zeitgeist movie yet? Go to
zeitgeistmovie.com
Listen intently at part 2 and let that one simmer in your brain. The first Bush got booted when he should've by a good politician. If Bill wouldn't have been such a womanizer citizens would remember his presidency differently. That being said, I'll take a president who cheats on his wife over one wasting 12 billion a day on a war that kills our kids and was against the wrong enemy. Saddam was an enemy, don't get me wrong, but this was clearly motivated by some family vendetta. Would I prefer a Clinton/Obama ticket over either one of them picking someone else. YES!! But this is politics. Americans rarely get their way. And even when we think we do it blows up in our collective faces. Aesop once said, "We hang the petty thieves and appoint the great ones to public office." So which mastermind would you prefer? I can't wait for my absentee ballot to arrive!
jesse, Singapore,
I have to admit that I rarely find agreement with Andrew Sullivan on anything, but I think you're right on the mark here.
The further irony, at least for me, is how much alike Karl Rove and the Clintons are - they thrive on being devisive, "saving the day", and winning. Nothing else seems to mean anything to them. In Clinton's case, his presidency was marked by competent management of the details of governing that resulted in some prosperous times as the Clinton's themselves played out their little psychodramas. In the case of Rove, his quest for power resulted in the psychodrama being played out in the halls of the government bureaucracy itself, resulting in financial ruin.
All politicians have some hubris, but at least Bill Clinton could "feel your pain" if he needed to. With Hillary and Rove, it's all their needs all the time. They're two of a kind.
rand, Durham, NC
I love Andrew Sullivan, but he forgets some of the origins of Act I of the Clinton Drama. Paula Jones had no thought of suing anyone over Clinton's sleazy pass at her until she was approached by agents of Richard Mellon Scaife who offered to fund a lawsuit in hopes of trapping the now President in a deposition. Clinton argued in court that a sitting president should not be able to be sued over private matters until he was out of office. The courts ruled otherwise and set the stage for the fiasco that followed. Clinton was a very naughty boy, but there was a right wing conspiracy that cared more about exposing personal weaknesses than allowing a sitting President to govern.Joan
Joan Amak, Geneva,
Great article--please write more. People need to be reminded about what these people are like. I am always encouraged when someone from their camp "sees the light." Although sharing the ugly truth about them might not offend them in the least, at least it might educate a few people in this country and get them to THINK (yes THINK!) differently.
I am reminded of all the really STUPID people who voted for GWB at the last election and how easy it is to get someone totally WRONG in power. Obama has a strong following of people with college degrees. Clinton does not. She is fooling a lot of people with what she says and that angers me that our country isn't smarter than that.
Obama seems so cool and collected when responding to her antics! I love the guy!
Please write more specifics about Hillary's part in the past--covering up for her husband (Paula Jones & Juanita Broaddrick & Monica Lewinsky), Whitewater, and especially about the current one (Peter Paul).
I too am afraid and sick!!
Jeanne, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
Hillary was first Lady, you call this experience??!! She wants her Coronation and she wants it NOW! Hope and change, change and hope. Read Larry Elders column on one of Obamas speeches. Have a good laugh! This guy is an empty suit. Do you want someone that gives good speeches and can organize a great team?? We don't need a Socialist taking away what freedom we have left! Wake up America! Has to be John McCain, a true American that will stand tough for America!
Sharon, Cedar Park Tx
sharon fullerton, cedar park,
Having grown up in Arkansas and exposed to the Clinton Machine for almost 30 years now, I can personally attest to many of their longtime tiresome antics. Yes, they are intelligent; yes they are calculating; and yes, my father had it right in 1984 or so when he told me at the dinner table," I have trouble with a man who has never worked for a living." The Clintons have always been (co)dependent on others (read: money, etc) because they have never really had any of it. Thus, the perpetual laundry "spin cycle". Let's see what comes out of the rinse this time.
Trice Johnson, Miami Beach, Fl
Oh my God. Someone has finally noticed the beast and her insanity. I think the woman is a psychopath and this is "business as usual" with her. Do we really want a crazy woman as our president? People really need to think about that. If a foreign leader makes her mad, that might be the beginning of the 3rd world war right there. She hates to be wrong in anything. People had better wake up and see that dealing with that wild person is like walking on hot coals.
barbara, charlotte, nc
Go Hilary (home that is). Is it just me or does she always seem like she is yelling at us?
Tom, DesMoines, Iowa
No homeland attacks on Bush's watch? Really?!?! Oh, you mean OTHER than that bit of unpleasantness on the 11th of September, 2001. Other than THAT, no attacks on the homeland. Other than almost 3000 dead, no victims inside the US. Right, besides that, no attacks on the homeland. Just so long as we are clear.
Echo, Dunedin, NZ
I would like to point out, in response to this post...the plot to bring down the Twin Towers was hatched in 1996(under Slick Willy's watch)....and was a continuation of the previous attack on the center (also on Bill's watch)...GW had no responsibility in 9/11......If anything, it can be laid at the feet of Clinton, who cut our military budget by 80%, during the 90's, and made us an attractive target for a major terrorist strike....GW was handed a Clinton mess, and did as well as anyone could expect, to strengthen this country, and make us safe in the wake of 8 years of liberal pandering, perhaps people in NZ...should stick to debating NZ politics.
David King, decatur, Alabama
"I woke up in a cold sweat early last Wednesday. There have been moments this past week when I have felt physically ill at the thought of that pair returning to power. "
Exactly why I voted for the Clinton's March 4 in Ohio. Glad to see it's working.
Echoesohio, Columbus, Ohio
P.S. Reagan did NOT seem happy to walk away. In fact, on his final day in office, at a news conference after leaving Washington and landing in California, Reagan complained that the 22nd amendment should be repealed. Reagan was angry when he made the made comment. He was mad that he had to go. It was weird to see. Go back and watch the tape! But on your central point, the Clintons are power crazy and Hillary is scary...just like a horror movie.
Chuck I., Milltown, NJ, USA
Couldn't agree more....the US media seems too wary of the Clinton's to point out some of the really grating issues here; seating the FL and MI delegates simply because you are losing and need a sudden rule change is cheating....and claiming that you deign Obama worthy enough to consider as your VP is a very arrogant and odd position to strike when you're down by 140 pledged delegates....having the gall to say Obama is not vetted whilst withholding your tax returns and masking overseas contributions to the Clinton library is breathtaking....but the real indignity is to suggest that McCain is more qualified to be President than Obama - proving that this woman cares nothing about the party, and wants to assure that if she loses the nomination, those words can be used by the Republicans to prevent Obama winning. She is ruthlessly self-absorbed.
Nick, Chicago, USA
This about sums up my feelings to a tee. I am an Independent and would have voted for any candidate the Democrats had on the ticket in 08 because of the GOP Congress giving the Bush Admiinistration such a free pass to screw up my country. The key word is "would". Once a Democrat, Hillary, put herself and McCain on the same plain and belittled another Democrat, Obama, all bets were off that this Independent would cast her vote for a Clinton. If the Democrats think Clinton is their best bet to win the White House in November they are in for a loss and a big surprise.
Clinton will manage to bring voters out of the woodwork just to vote AGAINST Clinton. In the process, I predict, Nancy Pelosi will lose the job of Speaker of the House. (It's the 2 for 1 that the Clinton's do not want the Democrat superdelegates to think about, but is real.)
Mary from TN, Maryville, usa/TN
The Clinton juggernaut and their minions have crystallized their political villainy into a mad science I'm afraid...a pseudo-political science of mass destruction. Kill it before it multiplies!
confounded, edinburgh, IK
This is not the election that the democrats should be going for a bunch of firsts, first woman president, first back president. They wont win even with the left centred media hype.
John Deck, London,
As a former Clinton supoorter, the view I have now reflects one similar to Mr. Sullivan's after carefully watching her behavior during this most-important primary. It's true-she ushered into the Democratic party a new low after the comment she made about her and McCain being the only 2 candidates out of the 3 running that had the experience to be President. I was literally outraged. It pissed me off that her comment was finally the perfect example of how divisive she can be. How does being a First Lady for 8 yrs qualify as MORE experience? If my husband of 8 yrs is a heart surgeon and I work in the hospital in a general capacity, I cant apply for Dept Chair of Cardiology and use my marriage to my husband as THE MOST experience on the job application now can I??
She is polarizing..and is finally showing us all, even people like me who used to support the Clintons, just how far she will go for power.Ex: 3am ad-adopting Republican scare tactics?! This from a Democrat?? No, thank you.
Kira Alexander, Stone Mountain, GA, USA
Andrew, I think YOU are the one who is the drama queen!
If you think Ken Starr would have stopped his inquiries no matter how many papers the Clintons released ...well you are naive, it was a witchhunt from start to finish .... personally I will make the trip to the Mall on Jan 20 2009 if Hillary is President !! It will be the sweetest revenge aagainst Ken Starr
Lucy Finn-Smith , Little Rock , ARKANSAS
After the Clinton and Bush years -enough already! It is obvious that the Clintons will do just about anything to win, when will we wake up and see them for what they are. I for one will put my trust in Obama then Sen. Clinton and her yahoo husband.
What we need at this time is a leader that can inspire us to do better, and work together to solve our problems not a person who has all the answers. We must remember that our goverment is not comprised of just the annointed few who attempt to goveren by fear but a goverment "of the people". Sen. Obama has demonstrated that he can get people to become interested and become active in goverment again. He is our best hope to bring America to its former greatness. It would be a travesty if we let the Clintons to prevail.
Jim, Woodstock, CT
Andrew, you hit it right on the nailhead. I have been a long time republican, but I am supporting Obama, because , we truly need some frsh blood. AS far as the Clintons, Evil empire, just you wait.You will have alot to write about once they get Florida TO COUNT AND STEAL THIS ELECTION.!!!! Further polarizing this nation which they care nothing about!!! Keep it real Andrew and write on!!!!!
Kevin, Chinle , Arizona
I think Hillary is good for America. Further, I believe she should take the nomination from Obama in the convention.
As for a joint ticket between them -- who would want to be the 'heartbeat' between either of them and the presidency?
After the convention riots are over, Hillary will emerge as the victor.
In November, she's toast.
Hillary - you go girl!
gxb, Red state, usa
As a lifelong Bill fan and an early on supporter of Hillary`s presidency I have now " seen the light " . I am disgusted with how Hillary`s campaign has attacked Barack Obama . Here in Rhode Island , the mayor of Providence was recently told he could not attend a speach by Hillary Clinton because of his ongoing feud with the Providence Fire Department . The Clintons strong armed one of the most loyal followers . It disgusted me . There are so many reasons to reject a Hillary presidency . Most of all is the baggage and negativity associated with Hillary and Bill . This is baggage that is on display every day . All you have to do is watch her work . She is dysfunctional and single minded , a bad combination . If the Dem brass gives into the Clintons regarding this primary then the Dem party will get what they deserve ... Mccain !
sweetfly, Providence , RI ,
Oh Andrew. You're a hard one to figure out. Such a right on story on the King & Queen of the political prom, and yet...and yet...you voted for Bush! I just don't get that at all. The most corrupt bunch of greedy, uncaring bastards on earth, and you gave them your vote. Perhaps in a future column, you can explain that to me.
Danny Del Rossi, Cedar Park, TX
Prudent foreign policy ?? The soul-sick narcissist Bill Clinton systematically traded our technology to China for illegal foreign cash. Please read David Horowitz 1999 at Salon.com. or Year of the Rat by Triplett & Timperlake. These are credible authors. Review the Cox report. When the Clintons are on the red phone at 3am, it's because it's 4pm in Beijing and they need more cash.
Pat , Troy, Oh
Clintons only have psychodrama because the Republicans try and off them at every opportunity.Andrew, you got no clue, you're not even American. When the House and Senate went Repub in 1995, they would stop at nothing to get the whole balance of power so they could implement their wonderful ideas like invading Iraq. See: Project For a New American Century. Clintons have resilience, not psychodrama. The psychos are on the right. Look at what has happened to our country. There would be no Brit troops in the Middle East if Repubs weren't in power. Andrew, your hostilities and sympathies are completely misplaced.
Dude, you got no clue at all.
Dave, Seattle, WA/USA
I do not agree with your assessment. The horror I have been living is 8 years of BUSH and CHENEY. There is not one thing they have done that is positive for our country.
t bader, chanhassen, mn
Do all you American readers know that Hillary has been LYING about her visits to us in Northern Ireland? What she has claimed on the stump does not even accord with what she wrote in her book! She claims she 'pulled together' a meeting in Belfast 'Town Hall' where she brought together Protestants and Catholics for the first time... Not true. No meeting at Belfast City Hall took place. Instead, whilst Bill and the politicians got down to work, her limo sailed on to a little coffee shop on the Ormeau Road where some well known community workers had lined up a cup of tea for her, and a photo opp. They had worked together for years before they invited her to take tea. So much for her foreign policy experience in our peace process! Taking tea in the Lamplighter Cafe on the Ormeau Road!!! Lord Trimble, our former First Minister has called Hillary's claims 'silly.'
Chris, Belfast, Northern Ireland
1) Hillary WILL NOT WIN against McCain. period. Every Republican who ever was will vote against her. I love Sullivan's ref to the horror movie.
2) Look at Obama's incredible campaign organization. THIS is an example of someone ready to get into the presidential office, hire the people he needs to do the groundwork and keep the populace inspired and looking ahead.
3) What is wrong with voting for someone who can organize a great team and give wonderfully inspiring speeches? Clinton's team is in chaos and, contrary to her indignant foot-stomping, she's far from honest in her accusations of Obama, not to mention that red-phone ad is just plain embarrassing. She doesn't give me the slightest bit of confidence that her administration will be any different from her campaign. Enough!
Enough with the "no substance, just good speeches" yak. Look at his campaign organization AND listen to his speeches. The man is a great president waiting to happen.
Georgia, Santa Fe, New Mexico
The real horror film has been 7 years of BUSH!
GO Hillery!
Bryan Campbell, Dayton, Oh
I say repeal Presidential term limits.... BUSH / CHENEY for another 4 !
SA, Harpers Ferry, WV
Lawrence Hartwell Racies, Deltona, FLorida USA said:
"He (GW Bush?) lowered taxes, protected our country with absolutely no homeland attacks on his watch while the rest of the world is in an uproar trying to wake up to the reality of the Islamic terrorism growing world wide."
Already been said but what a muppet, no homeland attacks except the biggest terrorist attack in history.
Lance, London, UK
I totally agree with everything that your artilce has stated. But I am left with one looming question. Why did the Democratic party and former Clinton supporters wait so long to reveal their contempt for the Clintons? All of the facts you have stated were "okay" until Obama came along. Every "nasty" thing said about Senator Obama has come from Clinton supporters. Bob Kerrey recieved no criticism about stating Mr. Obama's middle name. But if a nut like Bill Cunningham says it---headline news. Hillary may steal this election because she has been allowed to get away with everything else. Hey--she got Chris Matthews to apologize and David Shuster suspended for telling the truth. I saw Chelesea being pimped out by her Mom when she said don't vote against my Mom because of my Dad! I have had enough of the Clintons!
Julie Audia, Millbrook, USA/NY
The melodrama was due to the relentless obsession of the republicans to eliminate the Clinton Presidency whether because of their politics, payback for Watergate.Clinton did not manage the onslaught well. The shame of it is, and one reason they may want back in, is what could have been accomplished had the republicans pulled off the dogs. You mention those accomplishments (substantive legacy of the Clinton administration was a perfectly respectable one: welfare reform, fiscal sanity, prudent foreign policy, leaner government.) This was done in the face of all psychodrama you describe. You may not like them, their antics etc, but their accomplishments in the 90s are just what's needed now: fiscal sanity, prudent foreign policy, leaner gov't. Who cares whether you like them or not, let's look at the substance.
N. McKeen, Wellesley, MA
Come on Andrew...what's the REAL reason for your cold sweats? You're not kidding anybody!
What's the real reason you are angry with the Clinton clan?
Come on...you're obviously holding out...The truth Andrew, please?
Johnny
Johnny, Albany, NY/USA
I've believed, for quite some time, that most Democrats secretly loathe the Clintons, and that they would gladly throw Hillary overboard if they truly believed that there was another horse in the race with a chance of winning in November.
Obama is that horse. Say what you will about his policies (My personal opinion? They're bad...), but the simple fact is that he comes across as a reasonable human being with none of the Clinton's excess baggage.
Hillary will not ever "go quietly into that good night". She and Bill will attempt to smear and destroy anyone and anything who gets in the way of her "right" to be President.
Denver will not be pretty.
GV, NY, NY,
Hillary is speaking here in Scranton today, where all the uneducated, elderly Democrats dote on the fact that her father was from this area. These blue-collar blue-staters are clueless to the reality that her 35 years of experience includes union-busting at her former law firm and her years on the anti-union Walmart board, which she conveniently omits from her resume, along with all the failings of Billary's previous 8 years in the White House, proving once again that those who do not learn from history are condemned to repeat it in a country of the Clintons, by the Clintons and for the Clintons.
Sally, Scranton, Pennsylvania
Amen, Andrew. A brilliant piece!! I believe racism also affected the Texas and Ohio primaries. There are a number of whites, who would never vote for an African American.
Sherry , Nashville, TN
Andrew Sullivan, (who is pretty much a victim of the "Stockholm Syncdrome") joined his captives years ago. He is about as qualified to judge the Clintons, as Ken Starr.
Andrew is preaching to the choir, tell him to give it a rest.
Gabriel, Garberville, USA/CA
You express my thoughts exactly! I got so mad at the condescending suggestion that Hillary would consider Obama for VP---I made another donation to Barak's campaign over the weekend.
Carol Lingreen, Bethany, Oklahoma
I wouldn't listen to someone who PERSONALLY hates the Clintons. He's an intelligent man but HE really doesn't like the Clintons so I doubt he would say anything nice about them regardless. Besides it's not the Clintons who force reporters to make up speculation and pick over every little thing that they say and do. Besides A . Sullivan voted for Bush, based on what? For the Same flawed reasons he now Supports Obama. I'm sorry but anyone who voted for Bush and supported him until like one year ago isn't very perceptive or thoughtful to me.
KD, syracuse,
Lawrence Hartwell Racies, Deltona, FLorida USA said:
"He (GW Bush?) lowered taxes, protected our country with absolutely no homeland attacks on his watch while the rest of the world is in an uproar trying to wake up to the reality of the Islamic terrorism growing world wide."
No homeland attacks on Bush's watch? Really?!?! Oh, you mean OTHER than that bit of unpleasantness on the 11th of September, 2001. Other than THAT, no attacks on the homeland. Other than almost 3000 dead, no victims inside the US. Right, besides that, no attacks on the homeland. Just so long as we are clear.
Echo, Dunedin, NZ
This is such an encouraging missive from such a young man....I have always been very proud of this new generation that both my kids are in---they are so much hipper and smarter than the damn baby-boomers......they will save us, I hope, from the toxic Clintons....these Clintons have shamed their party, they have shamed and embarrassed their country, and I don't even want to have to fly over Arkansas if I can avoid it....thank you Andrew for a well written, thoughtful and brave article...
Bob Foonman, Naperville, GA, USA
This circus should stop now. Michigan, Florida, just seat the delegates but split it evenly amongst the two candidates. Sure Hillary would not go along, but then again, she accepted the rules as well as the two states did. THis way they are being punished in the way that they can not determine the outcome of the selection and still have their delegates seated, being part of the democratic process. I believe it is a very fair solution, the punishment being that the 2 states don't play a determining role in choosing the candidate. In case new primaries or otherwise are held they even get awarded of not abiding the rules since they will get the change to determine the outcome. THis would be unfair towards the other states
Frits van de Sande, Willemstad,
It was refreshing and heartening to read an article that so succinctly sums up my feelings about the Clintons. Thanks so much for printing it!
K. Peres, Baltimore, MD USA
Andrew, true Republican that you are, you are stooping to Rovian political tactics.
The problem with American politics is it the Republicans have driven campaigning into a sordid gutter where it panders to the worst in us, prurience, voyarism, prejudice and base emotion.
Someone as well educated as you should be able to see the value in avoiding this approach. But then, as I said above, you Are a Republican.
sandy l, Glastonbury, CT, USA
This sounds a lot like a Hannity attempt. BTW, did you watch what he did to Obama in his "research" into Obama's background and the unsavory relationships?
Now, if you think they are being hard on him now, that is nothing.
If you were a wife and you had been a part of this type of characterization continuously. I wonder if you wouldn't feel as though it wasn't another accusation, rather then truth?
I wouldn't try to go on with this Movie. We have seen too much of this rhetoric from the Republicans.
A, Minneapolis, MN
Great article it gave some interesting thoughts on the Clintons and Obama campagne. As an onlooker I must say another round of Clinton's in office is something I would not look forward to. Reading the thoughts of American voters is uplifting so good luck I hope they get the President who will restore all that they are looking for.President Obama sounds good to me.
margot parker, Kettering, UK
Gotta love it when the Democrats eat their young.
Mike, Dallas,
This is how they have arrested the Obama juggernaut. It’s the only game they know how to play. ?
I say instead, it's just "calling a spade a spade".
Phelonious, Saipan, U.S.
I am still trying to ascertain what sort of VOODOO these people have worked on the media and american people...statistically only 15-20% at most of the eligible voting population actually votes...if this statistics is even close to truth that is stunning to think how small a percentage of people actually elect the commander in chief of the world's greatest super power...if you are like me and have never given financially to a campaign support anyone but the Clintons...I hope Obama threatens the DNC to run as an independent if the do him dirty due to the Clintons death grip on this election...also Dick Morris the former Clinton campaign adviser during the '90s has some great advice for the Obama campaign....Morris hates the Clintons with a vehement passion and would like nothing better then to drive a stake through the heart of the political vampires that are the Clinton's ...well there is only one way to stop a nightmare, one must wake up!
kww, Minot, North Dakota
Are you nuts. Welfare reform???Vetoed three times and only signed when Dick Morris told him without it you lose the 96 election.
Sane foreign policy? Allowing BinLaden to declare war on the US from a cave not ONC but TWICE and ignoring it both times. Imagine if FDR ignored Hitler's declaration of war!!! Letting his biggest corporate contributor in 96 Loral to give the Chinese our newest technology at the time and in 94 permitting Jimmy Carter to head delegation to North Korea regarding their nuclear development program and ignoring them till Bush had to deal with them. Can you suck up any more to the Clinton Crime Family?
Hellery and Obama represent the most dangerous duo in modern history to ever be considered for president. Iran can't believe their good foturne over the stupidity of the American voters to ever consider a democrat to be commander-in-chief.
Iran and the rest of the rogue nations know full well the dem party has neither the guts, will or policy to fight them. How sad
Jim Keshaw, Johnston, RI
Thank you, I couldn't agree more! So, so tired of the Clintons.
Christina, Geneva,
"...He lowered taxes, protected our country with absolutely no homeland attacks on his watch while the rest of the world is in an uproar trying to wake up to the reality of the Islamic terrorism growing world wide...Lawrence Hartwell Racies, Deltona, FLorida USA"
Er, what? Absolutely no attacks on his watch? I may be a little out of touch, being based in the UK, but I would suggest that on September 11th 2001 an event happened that could be described as an attack. On Mr. Bush's watch. Perhaps it was just one, but I thought it fairly significant at the time.
I also remember seeing Mr Bush's face on telly when he heard the news and sat there dumb for several minutes while he tried to get his head around what he should do. The answer? Get away as quickly as possible and make sure that his friends the (oil-owning) Bid Ladens in the US could get away quickly and safely.
I have no particular axe to grind with Bush jr. but I can't see how he qualifies as one of your better leaders.
Dave, London, England
A brilliant piece of analytical journalism !!!!
BB, Dublin, ireland
If you agree there is a correlation between campaigning and governing than I do not see how anyone in their right mind could possibly vote for Clinton
Jon, Philly,
Andrew, You say Bill Clinton left a respectable legacy, 'welfare reform, fiscal sanity, prudent foreign policy, and leaner government'. Yet you call both he and Hillary 'evil'....I don't get it. You say you don't like drama??? (Considering you make your living on 'drama' I find it hard to believe you find it so discomforting.) You seem to be saying you don't like them because Bill strayed and didn't handle it well. It is impossible to handle something like that well. It seems Hillary did that about as well as anyone could. She is criticized for forgiving.
I could forgive my husband for the same. Not because I have some evil plan for the future, but because of love, commitment, our family, and our wonderful history together. The same reasons I’m sure Hillary considered. Maybe more…..who knows? (Including you)
Maybe you should just stick with the great legacy of ‘welfare reform, fiscal sanity, prudent foreign policy, and leaner government’, and not be so unjustly judgmental.
Deborah Akridge, Hot Springs, AR
I'm so glad that I'm not the only person who doesn't trust these people.
Ashley, Nashville,
Excellent article from Andrew Sullivan!! The best I've read in quite some time.
LR, Knoxville, TN
Precisely the reason I voted for Obama in the Virginia primary, and will vote for McCain in November. Great article!
Mike, Warrenton, US/VA
I am not even an Obama supporter, but am appalled at what is happening. First, Mr. Obama isn't running against one clinton, it is two. Second, to state Mr. Obama is not qualified to be the president and should be her VP is ludicrous. This is just a subterfuge to confuse the average voter. These two people will stop at nothing to get what they want. They are socialists and globalists who want to be king and queen of the world. their allegience is only to those who kiss the ring, pay homage and give lots of money. You, me and the others will be left out in the cold with silver tongued promises.
My advice to Mr. Obama is: you can no longer afford to play nice. They will rip you from limb to limb and feed off your blood. It's time to bring out the big boys. Good luck. Our country deserves much more than putting these people back into office.
Susie, Kansas City,
In the beginning I said I'd like to see HIllary as President and Obama as Vice President and then possibly President afterwards. Nothing has yet altered that opinion for me. I wonder how much of the HIllary hatred is misogyny? It's easy to project hopes on the less-known candidate with fewer years of experience. I am suspicious of the Obama hysteria. No candidate embodies all of the ideals of any individual voter and we have to decide what matters most. I think either Democratic candidate would be better than any Republican candidate and let's be honest -- HIllary and Obama are both accomplished, ambitious politicians and both bring desirable qualities (more than the present administration) to public service. I don't completely trust a candidate who woos with simple answers - those have never worked for any issue in my life. I want an intelligent, sophisticated candidate who is capable of growth and change and can think on her feet rather than just make inspiring speeches.
FS, New York, NY
Perhaps Andrew's barebacking is causing dementia. Everyone should remember Andrew is a conservative. Of course he hates the Clintons.
Mary, Baltimore, MD,
I'm a 76 year old Dem/Indy.I want the Cheny/Bush criminal party gone.Clinton looked like a lock at the beginning and I seriously thought of opting out of voting.When people asked me why I could not stand Sen. Clinton I could not put my dislike into words.This primary brought out the worst in her.I too have the same fear you have Mr. Sullivan.Most of my setiments are the same as yours except their taxes.There is something there,maybe not enought to sink them but enought to ssriously damage them.
jack hickey, Long Beach, NY
Great piece, Sullivan. I wake up in fear every morning that the Clintons will pull off a coup and overthrow the democratic process. Their smug sense of entitlement is sickening. The arrogance displayed in offering Obama - the clear frontrunner - the VP spot is astounding. Their audacity knows no bounds. Sixteen years of rule by one family is profoundly un-American.
I fear that, in their hunger for victory, the Clintons are willing to go places that Obama will not. And that might cost him the nomination. I have been a lifelong democrat. But, if Hillary steals this nomination, I will change my party affiliation to Independant and vote for McCain in the general election. And I know dozens of people who have made the same vow. The Democratic Party and the strangely passive Howard Dean are flirting with disaster.
Tonya, New York, NY
Tonya Jenerette, Brooklyn, NY
Our politicial system just can't seem to survive without childish rhetoric, name calling, and drudging up dirt. How refreshing would it be if we could just look at the issues and get each candidate to weigh in - period the end.
And for people like you who need to write this garbage....well it is a shame that your