Hillary Clinton has already made history. She was the first woman to be a strong contender for the presidential nomination of a major political party, and she is the first wife of a president to earn high office in her own right.
Hillary’s loyal fans would like nothing better than for her to make one more run for the presidency, but prospects for that are unlikely. The fact is, time is against her. So is her age.
In 2012, Clinton will celebrate her 65th birthday; it’s difficult to envision a plausible scenario in which she would challenge her boss, Barack Obama, for the Democratic nomination that year. Such a race would have the potential for splitting the party for a generation, and, in the end, it would be a futile exercise. Although Obama will probably be “beatable” in the 2012 general election, he is popular enough to easily withstand a challenge in the primaries, even from the formidable Hillary. It’s been 126 years since an incumbent president (Chester A. Arthur) has been denied renomination by a party convention.
Four years later, Clinton will be 69. Although that’s not too old by historical standards (Ronald Reagan was 69 at his first election), as a practical matter, it would be a difficult sell for her. She does not have the same easy-going temperament as Reagan, and her years as Secretary of State, First Lady and keeping up with and tolerating Bill will likely have taken their toll. By then, the Democratic Party, long suffering from Clinton fatigue, will want to look at some fresh faces.
Barring any future elective or appointed offices, Hillary will still remain a force within the Democratic Party. Female candidates from coast to coast will welcome her support. She will likely inspire a new generation of young women to get involved in the political process.
Most importantly, Hillary will be revered as an elder statesman. She will receive many invitations for television interviews and major newspapers would be open to occasional op-ed columns from her on issues of national and international significance. As a former Secretary of State, she could be a presidential troubleshooter for future administrations, a good-will ambassador, Secretary General of the United Nations or the founder of a new prestigious think tank. Of course, she will write her memoirs about her tenure as Secretary of State, and these will be a best-seller, especially if she offers any criticism of Obama.
Hillary has “invented” and “re-invented” herself many times over the past four decades, so there is no doubt that no matter what role she fashions, she will remain a significant figure in public life.
Well, I still think she can be POTUS and I know I am not alone!
Four years later, Clinton will be 69. Although that’s not too old by historical standards (Ronald Reagan was 69 at his first election), as a practical matter, it would be a difficult sell for her. She does not have the same easy-going temperament as Reagan, and her years as Secretary of State, First Lady and keeping up with and tolerating Bill will likely have taken their toll. By then, the Democratic Party, long suffering from Clinton fatigue, will want to look at some fresh faces.
What an absolute crock of nonsense. Change of pace though. Instead of sexism, now Hillary is going to face ageism as a female?
BTW, one look at our current "fresh face" should make the Dems rethink their so-called Clinton fatigue. Seems those that have the Clintons' endorsement are the ones winning this year's primaries.
This is just another slap at the Clintons because Obama has proven what 18 million of us knew...The One is really The Done.
Thanks for finding this, Jen. It’s important to be aware of the various perspectives out there regarding a potential Hillary run in 2012, especially, those of people like this author, Jake Betz, who evidently thought he was being subtle in his efforts to diminish Hillary's importance.
That age BS won't wash. Hillary can do more now than most 30 year olds I know. I doubt a few years is going to slow her down much. And, don't forget, since there has never been a female president in this country, we can know only how well or poorly MEN function in that position. Maybe a 69 year old man is to damn old for the job, but women live longer and remain physically and mentally healthier for years longer than men. Hell, they have to - the men can't function without them to do the real work.
Although Obama will probably be “beatable” in the 2012 general election, he is popular enough to easily withstand a challenge in the primaries, even from the formidable Hillary.
What kind of dope is this guy smoking?
Barring any future elective or appointed offices, Hillary will still remain a force within the Democratic Party. Female candidates from coast to coast will welcome her support. She will likely inspire a new generation of young women to get involved in the political process.
Hillary’s approval rating is higher than that of anyone else in government, and she won more votes than anyone has ever won in a primary in the history of this country. Both female AND MALE candidates will welcome her endorsement and support.
Most importantly, Hillary will be revered as an elder statesman. She will receive many invitations for television interviews and major newspapers would be open to occasional op-ed columns from her on issues of national and international significance.
Does this author know ANYTHING about Hillary?! She does more serious work before breakfast than most government officials do in a week. She’s constantly on the go. She is serious about solving problems and fighting for human rights - not paying lip service to those endeavors. She’s not about publicity and television interviews. What a wast of her talents that would be.
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It was we, the people; not we, the white male citizens; nor yet we, the male citizens; but we, the whole people, who formed the Union.... Men, their rights and nothing more; women, their rights and nothing less. ~Susan B. Anthony
Hillary will be ready for the "elder stateswoman" position when she's her mother's age.
stamp!
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It was we, the people; not we, the white male citizens; nor yet we, the male citizens; but we, the whole people, who formed the Union.... Men, their rights and nothing more; women, their rights and nothing less. ~Susan B. Anthony