A Bridge to the 21st Century
- Thread starter SLCer
- Start date
If Clinton had the option of running again, the Monica scandal and reaction by some would have been different. There were some who backed Clinton in part because he was done in two years and the Democratic Party could move on from a Employer harassment [as Gov. ARKS] / perjury [as POTUS] / adultery / impeachment scandal.
There would have more support in the Democratic Party for Clinton to resign and for VP Al Gore to replace Clinton as POTUS.
If the only change from OTL is the 22nd Amend removed, I do not see a landslide in the Democratic Party demanding a 3rd term for Bill.
There would have more support in the Democratic Party for Clinton to resign and for VP Al Gore to replace Clinton as POTUS.
If the only change from OTL is the 22nd Amend removed, I do not see a landslide in the Democratic Party demanding a 3rd term for Bill.
Well there goes Kerrey as VP.
What about Daniel Patrick Moyniham?
He's a good moderate, able to compromise, has experience, and doesn't have presidential ambition. However the one problem is that he dies in 2003, so if Clinton were elected, he'd need a new VP.
However a VP from a swing state might be better because New York is reliably democratic.
Also if Bill gets 3rd term, that could change Hillary's future career path.
Wishing you well, his majesty,
The Scandinavian Emperor
Thanks, guys. Cagey, it's definitely going to be tough for Clinton in the coming months. More and more Democrats are going to show their skepticism here.
Emperor, after much thought, I decided on who Clinton will choose as his VP. It's going to happen because of a development we see in summer '00 that could prove costly to a Clinton third term. I'm not going to give anything away, but yeah, I think most will be surprised.
As for Hillary, she certainly does take on a different path. In real life, Clinton began her run for senate in early '99, or at least indicated she had strong interest in running. That's not even an option now.
Emperor, after much thought, I decided on who Clinton will choose as his VP. It's going to happen because of a development we see in summer '00 that could prove costly to a Clinton third term. I'm not going to give anything away, but yeah, I think most will be surprised.
As for Hillary, she certainly does take on a different path. In real life, Clinton began her run for senate in early '99, or at least indicated she had strong interest in running. That's not even an option now.
JUNE, 1999 - JOE LIEBERMAN WOULD SUPPORT MCCAIN OVER CLINTON
Connecticut senator says he's not on board with Clinton third term
On MSNBC's Hardball, Senator Joe Lieberman attacked potential Clinton run.
PAUL WELLSTONE ENDORSES BRADLEY
Joins Bob Kerrey as second senator to endorse Bradley Campaign
Wellstone announced at a rally his support for the New Jersey senator, demanding accountability and a return to progressive ideals.
Connecticut senator says he's not on board with Clinton third term
On MSNBC's Hardball, Senator Joe Lieberman attacked potential Clinton run.
Chris Matthews: Senator, what's your take on Bob Kerrey, your friend, endorsing Bill Bradley?
Joe Lieberman: Well, Chris, I think it shows the dissatisfaction many in our party have for the President and this ridiculous idea of running for a third term -
Chris Matthews: Ridiculous? You think President Clinton seeking a third term would be a ridiculous idea? Is that right, Senator?
Joe Lieberman: Yes, yes, yes I do. I don't think President Clinton should seek a third term, I am against the idea of it and am disappointed he's even thinking of it.
Chris Matthews: Will you support him if he does win the nomination?
Joe Lieberman: Uh, well, I don't know -
Chris Matthews: You don't know? You, a current Democrat, don't know if you'll support the Democratic nominee in November next year?
Joe Lieberman: Well it depends on -
Chris Matthews: Depends on what, Senator?
Joe Lieberman: Well I was going to tell you, Chris. It depends on who the Republicans nominate, I guess.
Chris Matthews: What do you mean?
Joe Lieberman: If John McCain is the nominee, I would seriously think of supporting him, voting for him, over Clinton.
Chris Matthews: Really? You would support McCain over Clinton? Are my ears right on this? Is that what you're saying?
Joe Lieberman: I think so. I believe McCain is a strong leader and that's just how much I am against a Clinton third term. Now, I guess if it's not McCain, I would be more open to voting for the President, but, you know, we'll see.
Chris Matthews: So you might be open to voting Republican if -
Joe Lieberman: Or third party.
Chris Matthews: Or third party if Clinton is the nominee?
Joe Lieberman: Yes, Chris. I am a Democrat, but I'm not beholden to the party. I vote my conscience, not affiliation.
Chris Matthews: So does this mean you're supporting Bill Bradley in the primaries?
Joe Lieberman: I respect Senator Bradley, but I have, uh, not made a decision yet on who to support or whether I'll support anyone.
Joe Lieberman: Well, Chris, I think it shows the dissatisfaction many in our party have for the President and this ridiculous idea of running for a third term -
Chris Matthews: Ridiculous? You think President Clinton seeking a third term would be a ridiculous idea? Is that right, Senator?
Joe Lieberman: Yes, yes, yes I do. I don't think President Clinton should seek a third term, I am against the idea of it and am disappointed he's even thinking of it.
Chris Matthews: Will you support him if he does win the nomination?
Joe Lieberman: Uh, well, I don't know -
Chris Matthews: You don't know? You, a current Democrat, don't know if you'll support the Democratic nominee in November next year?
Joe Lieberman: Well it depends on -
Chris Matthews: Depends on what, Senator?
Joe Lieberman: Well I was going to tell you, Chris. It depends on who the Republicans nominate, I guess.
Chris Matthews: What do you mean?
Joe Lieberman: If John McCain is the nominee, I would seriously think of supporting him, voting for him, over Clinton.
Chris Matthews: Really? You would support McCain over Clinton? Are my ears right on this? Is that what you're saying?
Joe Lieberman: I think so. I believe McCain is a strong leader and that's just how much I am against a Clinton third term. Now, I guess if it's not McCain, I would be more open to voting for the President, but, you know, we'll see.
Chris Matthews: So you might be open to voting Republican if -
Joe Lieberman: Or third party.
Chris Matthews: Or third party if Clinton is the nominee?
Joe Lieberman: Yes, Chris. I am a Democrat, but I'm not beholden to the party. I vote my conscience, not affiliation.
Chris Matthews: So does this mean you're supporting Bill Bradley in the primaries?
Joe Lieberman: I respect Senator Bradley, but I have, uh, not made a decision yet on who to support or whether I'll support anyone.
PAUL WELLSTONE ENDORSES BRADLEY
Joins Bob Kerrey as second senator to endorse Bradley Campaign
Wellstone announced at a rally his support for the New Jersey senator, demanding accountability and a return to progressive ideals.
By early summer, the White House was really in damage control. There seemed to be a coordinated effort to roll out some major endorsements for the Bradley campaign and it really set the narrative that President Clinton was vulnerable.
None of us were shocked when Joe Lieberman came out against a Clinton third term because he had been one of the more vocal critics during the Lewinsky ordeal. However, to openly admit to potentially voting Republican irritated the White House and soured any relationship, no matter how damaged, they had with him and his office.
What did shock the campaign and the President was the diversity of Bradley's first two major endorsements. Bob Kerrey and Paul Wellstone had dramatically different political styles and were on the opposite side of the Democratic spectrum. It really showed Bradley had the ability to generate some support from the middle, but more importantly, pull support from a great deal of liberals who were angry with Clinton. - Born For History (Joe Lockhart)
None of us were shocked when Joe Lieberman came out against a Clinton third term because he had been one of the more vocal critics during the Lewinsky ordeal. However, to openly admit to potentially voting Republican irritated the White House and soured any relationship, no matter how damaged, they had with him and his office.
What did shock the campaign and the President was the diversity of Bradley's first two major endorsements. Bob Kerrey and Paul Wellstone had dramatically different political styles and were on the opposite side of the Democratic spectrum. It really showed Bradley had the ability to generate some support from the middle, but more importantly, pull support from a great deal of liberals who were angry with Clinton. - Born For History (Joe Lockhart)
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GALLUP: CLINTON POPULAR, THIRD TERM RUN NOT
President's approval remains high, but Americans against third term run
60% of Americans approve of the job Bill Clinton is doing as president
BRADLEY HITS CLINTON ON TRUST
Says 'trust is frayed' in government, urges fresh start
Bill Bradley continues to hit President Clinton on the trust issue.
PAUL WELLSTONE SPEAKS ON WHY HE SUPPORTS BRADLEY
The senator sits down with CNN's Larry King
Larry King: Was it a tough decision? You know, coming out in support of Bradley?
Paul Wellstone: No, not really, Larry. I know Bill from our time in the U.S. Senate and I've come to respect his fight, his understanding of the issues most important to not only Democrats, but average, every day Americans.
Larry King: And President Clinton doesn't understand? Is that what you're saying?
Paul Wellstone: Well he does better than the Republicans, that's for sure. But no, not at the level of Senator Bradley. The President, in my view, has kind of lost his way. He's not near the fighter for Democratic principles as I believe Senator Bradley would be.
Larry King: You mean - you mean fighting for liberalism?
Paul Wellstone: It's not just liberalism. It's progressive policies that make up the heart and soul of our party's history. I believe Bradley is in the same mold of Franklin Roosevelt and John Kennedy, two champions for the working class. In my view, he's from the Democratic Wing of the Democratic Party.
Larry King: [chuckles] What's that, the Democratic Wing of the Democratic Party? What do you mean by that?
Paul Wellstone: A Democrat that, you know, isn't afraid to be a Democrat.
Larry King: And you think Clinton, the President, is afraid of his party?
Paul Wellstone: I think, in some instances, yes, he's not nearly as committed to the ideals I've worked so hard for the last decade or so.
Larry King: Will you support the President if he, of course, does wrap up the nomination?
Paul Wellstone: Yes. Though I don't agree with the President on every issue and wish he would be a bit more populist and a fighter for our party, he's still infinitely better than what the Republicans are offering and it's not even close. But right now, my hope is that, at the end of the day, when these primaries are over, we're nominating Bill Bradley as our party's nominee.
President's approval remains high, but Americans against third term run
60% of Americans approve of the job Bill Clinton is doing as president
Do you approve or disapprove of the job President Clinton is doing?
Do you support President Clinton seeking a third term?
We knew the potential third term run would be unpopular from the start and the polls pretty much supported that view. It would take some persuading to move those numbers in a positive direction, but the campaign wasn't too worried because it was still early and in the end, it wouldn't be about Clinton seeking out a third term and more about him as a leader and candidate.
With his unusually high approval numbers, relative economic stability and growing peace throughout the world, he was in a far better position to combat those negative numbers than I think past presidents found themselves in at the end of their second term. If he could remain popular, we felt the issue wouldn't influence Americans as much as the media seemed to be suggesting.
Unfortunately, Clinton would soon be in campaign mode, which meant negative attacks from both Bill Bradley and the Republicans. Whenever that happens, personal favorability ratings do tend to go southward a bit. So, while he was popular at the moment, we all knew there was a good chance that popularity saw a dive, especially with a bitter primary fight. - Born For History (Joe Lockhart)
- Approve: 60%
- Disapprove: 37%
- No opinion: 3%
Do you support President Clinton seeking a third term?
- Yes: 35%
- No: 47%
- Unsure: 18%
We knew the potential third term run would be unpopular from the start and the polls pretty much supported that view. It would take some persuading to move those numbers in a positive direction, but the campaign wasn't too worried because it was still early and in the end, it wouldn't be about Clinton seeking out a third term and more about him as a leader and candidate.
With his unusually high approval numbers, relative economic stability and growing peace throughout the world, he was in a far better position to combat those negative numbers than I think past presidents found themselves in at the end of their second term. If he could remain popular, we felt the issue wouldn't influence Americans as much as the media seemed to be suggesting.
Unfortunately, Clinton would soon be in campaign mode, which meant negative attacks from both Bill Bradley and the Republicans. Whenever that happens, personal favorability ratings do tend to go southward a bit. So, while he was popular at the moment, we all knew there was a good chance that popularity saw a dive, especially with a bitter primary fight. - Born For History (Joe Lockhart)
BRADLEY HITS CLINTON ON TRUST
Says 'trust is frayed' in government, urges fresh start
Bill Bradley continues to hit President Clinton on the trust issue.
Bill Bradley's line of attack was clear in the primary: he was going to hit President Clinton as much as possible on his honesty and the disconnect between Washington and average Americans. With Clinton's approval high, Bradley knew he couldn't attack him solely on policy, but had to narrow in on his personal credibility. Even though a majority approved of Clinton's job performance, they didn't trust him and were definitely growing wary of his personal antics. Bradley saw this as an opening and hoped to ride it out until the bitter end. - BUCKLE UP! The Election 2000 Thriller (Larry J. Sabato)
PAUL WELLSTONE SPEAKS ON WHY HE SUPPORTS BRADLEY
The senator sits down with CNN's Larry King
Larry King: Was it a tough decision? You know, coming out in support of Bradley?
Paul Wellstone: No, not really, Larry. I know Bill from our time in the U.S. Senate and I've come to respect his fight, his understanding of the issues most important to not only Democrats, but average, every day Americans.
Larry King: And President Clinton doesn't understand? Is that what you're saying?
Paul Wellstone: Well he does better than the Republicans, that's for sure. But no, not at the level of Senator Bradley. The President, in my view, has kind of lost his way. He's not near the fighter for Democratic principles as I believe Senator Bradley would be.
Larry King: You mean - you mean fighting for liberalism?
Paul Wellstone: It's not just liberalism. It's progressive policies that make up the heart and soul of our party's history. I believe Bradley is in the same mold of Franklin Roosevelt and John Kennedy, two champions for the working class. In my view, he's from the Democratic Wing of the Democratic Party.
Larry King: [chuckles] What's that, the Democratic Wing of the Democratic Party? What do you mean by that?
Paul Wellstone: A Democrat that, you know, isn't afraid to be a Democrat.
Larry King: And you think Clinton, the President, is afraid of his party?
Paul Wellstone: I think, in some instances, yes, he's not nearly as committed to the ideals I've worked so hard for the last decade or so.
Larry King: Will you support the President if he, of course, does wrap up the nomination?
Paul Wellstone: Yes. Though I don't agree with the President on every issue and wish he would be a bit more populist and a fighter for our party, he's still infinitely better than what the Republicans are offering and it's not even close. But right now, my hope is that, at the end of the day, when these primaries are over, we're nominating Bill Bradley as our party's nominee.
CUOMO COMES OUT IN SUPPORT OF BRADLEY
Former New York governor surprises with endorsement
At a rally in Concord, New Hampshire, Mario Cuomo endorsed Bill Bradley. "Bill Clinton has been a good president. But it's time for change!"
JULY, 1999 - BRADLEY TRAILS CLINTON BY ONLY 10 POINTS AMONG DEMOCRATS
New Jersey senator closes gap considerably
In a poll of Democrats nationally, Bill Bradley now only trails the President by 10 points - the closest he's been since polling began.
CLINTON MAKES HISTORICAL ANNOUNCEMENT
President will seek unprecedented third term
President Clinton is joined on stage by his wife, Hillary Clinton, after announcing his historic run for a third term.
Former New York governor surprises with endorsement
At a rally in Concord, New Hampshire, Mario Cuomo endorsed Bill Bradley. "Bill Clinton has been a good president. But it's time for change!"
Bradley, it seemed, was picking up endorsement after endorsement and it certainly worried the Clinton campaign. There was blowback from Democratic officials who were not sold on a third term and it became more and more clear he would face a divided party.
Mario Cuomo's endorsement stung. Cuomo, of course, gave the nominating speech for Clinton at the '92 Democratic Convention and the two were pretty close. The endorsement of Bradley really came out of the blue and threw Clinton off his game. It would take him nearly a month to recover and by that point, the polls were shifting in Bradley's favor. - Born For History (Joe Lockhart)
Mario Cuomo's endorsement stung. Cuomo, of course, gave the nominating speech for Clinton at the '92 Democratic Convention and the two were pretty close. The endorsement of Bradley really came out of the blue and threw Clinton off his game. It would take him nearly a month to recover and by that point, the polls were shifting in Bradley's favor. - Born For History (Joe Lockhart)
JULY, 1999 - BRADLEY TRAILS CLINTON BY ONLY 10 POINTS AMONG DEMOCRATS
New Jersey senator closes gap considerably
In a poll of Democrats nationally, Bill Bradley now only trails the President by 10 points - the closest he's been since polling began.
Which candidate would you be most likely to support for the Democratic nomination for president in the year 2000?
- Bill Clinton: 45%
- Bill Bradley: 35%
- Undecided: 20%
The campaign wanted to officially announce in August, but with so much negative press mounting over Bradley's surge and his steady stream of endorsements, it became clear Clinton had to announce as soon as possible. So, he gathered his speech writers, top-flight officials and, along with Hillary, departed for Camp David to formulate his official, historical announcement.
At Camp David, the group sat around a table and went over the possible scenarios. Clinton was adamant the speech be given in his home town, in front of the Old State House, where he announced his campaign for the presidency eight years ago.
Then, after announcing, they decided to send Clinton up to Iowa for the weekend and then over to New Hampshire for some heavy campaigning. The hope was, with all the positive press, Clinton would be able to find his balance and blunt any momentum Bradley had created throughout the summer. - Born For History (Joe Lockhart)
At Camp David, the group sat around a table and went over the possible scenarios. Clinton was adamant the speech be given in his home town, in front of the Old State House, where he announced his campaign for the presidency eight years ago.
Then, after announcing, they decided to send Clinton up to Iowa for the weekend and then over to New Hampshire for some heavy campaigning. The hope was, with all the positive press, Clinton would be able to find his balance and blunt any momentum Bradley had created throughout the summer. - Born For History (Joe Lockhart)
CLINTON MAKES HISTORICAL ANNOUNCEMENT
President will seek unprecedented third term
President Clinton is joined on stage by his wife, Hillary Clinton, after announcing his historic run for a third term.
"I am so proud to be back in Little Rock! I love Arkansas and I love you. And I love America.
Eight years ago, I stood in front of you and announced my candidacy for the presidency of the United States. At the time, we were a broken nation. Our economy was in shambles, our deficit and debt had skyrocketed and you, average, every day Americans, had lost faith in your government.
At the time of my election, the future was uncertain. A wall had come down, nations were united, but here at home, so much was in doubt.
Not anymore. Not anymore!
Today, our country has experienced remarkable growth. Our economy is at its best level since World War II and we have paid down the budget deficit and are working on paying down our nation's debt. Today, Americans are back to work, our streets are safer, are borders are safer and we are respected all over the globe again. In eight short years we have done so much, we have met so many challenges, faced so many daunting tasks and yet, through it all, the American Spirit has persevered just as it did a generation ago when our fathers and grandfathers fought Fascism and Nazism and overcame a Great Depression.
But isn't that what America is all about? People working together, united for one common purpose - the creation of greatness?
America is great not because of Her politicians or presidents, but because the American people are willing to bear any burden, pay any price to preserve what has been delivered to us by our hardworking, often bloodied, ancestors.
The American Spirit is as alive today as it's ever been. And it's up to us to ensure its viability into the 21st Century. You see, we stand on the brink of a new generation - a new era of American dominance. This election, this moment, is going to be about that bridge to the 21st Century or a return to the failed policies that nearly brought our nation to its knees.
I am running for a third term not to fulfill a historical need but to continue the greatness we've established in the 1990s and to bring this amazing experiment we call America into the 21st Century!
Together we can continue to champion the brilliant, fight for the voiceless and build a prosperous, sustainable nation not just for us, but for our children and our children's children.
This race is not about me. This race is about Chelsea. This race is about all the children out there who will pave the way for a true American 21st Century." - Excerpt from William Jefferson Clinton's announcement speech
Eight years ago, I stood in front of you and announced my candidacy for the presidency of the United States. At the time, we were a broken nation. Our economy was in shambles, our deficit and debt had skyrocketed and you, average, every day Americans, had lost faith in your government.
At the time of my election, the future was uncertain. A wall had come down, nations were united, but here at home, so much was in doubt.
Not anymore. Not anymore!
Today, our country has experienced remarkable growth. Our economy is at its best level since World War II and we have paid down the budget deficit and are working on paying down our nation's debt. Today, Americans are back to work, our streets are safer, are borders are safer and we are respected all over the globe again. In eight short years we have done so much, we have met so many challenges, faced so many daunting tasks and yet, through it all, the American Spirit has persevered just as it did a generation ago when our fathers and grandfathers fought Fascism and Nazism and overcame a Great Depression.
But isn't that what America is all about? People working together, united for one common purpose - the creation of greatness?
America is great not because of Her politicians or presidents, but because the American people are willing to bear any burden, pay any price to preserve what has been delivered to us by our hardworking, often bloodied, ancestors.
The American Spirit is as alive today as it's ever been. And it's up to us to ensure its viability into the 21st Century. You see, we stand on the brink of a new generation - a new era of American dominance. This election, this moment, is going to be about that bridge to the 21st Century or a return to the failed policies that nearly brought our nation to its knees.
I am running for a third term not to fulfill a historical need but to continue the greatness we've established in the 1990s and to bring this amazing experiment we call America into the 21st Century!
Together we can continue to champion the brilliant, fight for the voiceless and build a prosperous, sustainable nation not just for us, but for our children and our children's children.
This race is not about me. This race is about Chelsea. This race is about all the children out there who will pave the way for a true American 21st Century." - Excerpt from William Jefferson Clinton's announcement speech
GORE CAMPAIGNS WITH CLINTON IN IOWA
Won't mention whether he'll stay on ticket
Vice President Al Gore and President Bill Clinton tried their best to put their squabbles behind them at a rally in Ames today.
CLINTON RALLIES NEW HAMPSHIRE
Thousands greet President on first official campaign stop
President talks about the need to keep America's economy viable into the 21st Century.
CLINTON GIVES FIERY SPEECH TO CALIFORNIA DEMOCRATS
Never mentions opponent Bill Bradley
Clinton spoke in front of a couple hundred Democrats at a rally in Sunnyvale, California.
The strategy early was not to focus on Bradley, but instead to focus on his accomplishments as president and the need to keep moving forward. The campaign didn't want to make this about Bradley and the less he was mentioned, the more they hoped it signaled how irrelevant he really was in the whole scheme of things.
The campaign was going to really barnstorm primary states early, pull back, and then survey the battle field a bit when the dust settled. They didn't want to scorch the earth if, after initial campaigning, they could regain their footing in the polls. This was not about devastating Bradley, or alienating potential Democratic voters. This was all about readjusting the dialogue nationally, which had been tilted heavily against the President since spring. - A 21st Century Campaign (John Sasso)
AUGUST, 1999 - MOYNIHAN TO BACK BRADLEY
Senator says decision based on long-time friendship
The four-term senator announced his endorsement in an interview with NBC's Tim Russert.
Won't mention whether he'll stay on ticket
Vice President Al Gore and President Bill Clinton tried their best to put their squabbles behind them at a rally in Ames today.
The Clinton '00 campaign was officially underway. The website had launched, the campaign signs were printed and the staff quickly formed. This was for real and everyone was ready to go all in.
The first stop on the campaign trail was Iowa. With the caucuses happening in less than a year, and Bill Bradley essentially staking out the state, Clinton and his campaign crew knew they couldn't afford to take this state lightly. Even a perceived weak showing here in January could unravel the campaign and they weren't going to have any of it. So, it was important the campaign lock down Iowa and build enough support as possible before even thinking of easing up there.
Based on his first rally, where 10,000 or so attended, you would have never questioned his slipping in the state. The people at the rally loved him. Clinton loved it. He ate that stuff up. He was certainly enjoying himself on the campaign stump once again. - A 21st Century Campaign (John Sasso)
The first stop on the campaign trail was Iowa. With the caucuses happening in less than a year, and Bill Bradley essentially staking out the state, Clinton and his campaign crew knew they couldn't afford to take this state lightly. Even a perceived weak showing here in January could unravel the campaign and they weren't going to have any of it. So, it was important the campaign lock down Iowa and build enough support as possible before even thinking of easing up there.
Based on his first rally, where 10,000 or so attended, you would have never questioned his slipping in the state. The people at the rally loved him. Clinton loved it. He ate that stuff up. He was certainly enjoying himself on the campaign stump once again. - A 21st Century Campaign (John Sasso)
CLINTON RALLIES NEW HAMPSHIRE
Thousands greet President on first official campaign stop
President talks about the need to keep America's economy viable into the 21st Century.
CLINTON GIVES FIERY SPEECH TO CALIFORNIA DEMOCRATS
Never mentions opponent Bill Bradley
Clinton spoke in front of a couple hundred Democrats at a rally in Sunnyvale, California.
The strategy early was not to focus on Bradley, but instead to focus on his accomplishments as president and the need to keep moving forward. The campaign didn't want to make this about Bradley and the less he was mentioned, the more they hoped it signaled how irrelevant he really was in the whole scheme of things.
The campaign was going to really barnstorm primary states early, pull back, and then survey the battle field a bit when the dust settled. They didn't want to scorch the earth if, after initial campaigning, they could regain their footing in the polls. This was not about devastating Bradley, or alienating potential Democratic voters. This was all about readjusting the dialogue nationally, which had been tilted heavily against the President since spring. - A 21st Century Campaign (John Sasso)
AUGUST, 1999 - MOYNIHAN TO BACK BRADLEY
Senator says decision based on long-time friendship
The four-term senator announced his endorsement in an interview with NBC's Tim Russert.
Tim Russert: So, Senator, you're then ready to make an endorsement - is, is that right?
Daniel Moynihan: Yes. I want to start by saying that this isn't about President Clinton. I respect him. I respect the job he's done and have been a supporter of his for eight years. If he wins the nomination, I'll happily back him in the general and cast my vote for him. I believe that we are far better off today as a nation than we were when he took office in 1993. I won't say that I'm fully on board with this idea of a third term. I do have concerns about dynasties and what not. But my support for Bradley should not be seen as a rebuke of the president.
I support Senator Bradley because he is a very good man. He's a very good friend. I have known him for many years and worked with him on a great deal of issues. I have come to respect and trust him as a friend and a leader. I believe, without question, he would make an extraordinary president. And it would be my honor, my hope, to see him standing on the steps of our nation's capitol reciting the oath of office.
Daniel Moynihan: Yes. I want to start by saying that this isn't about President Clinton. I respect him. I respect the job he's done and have been a supporter of his for eight years. If he wins the nomination, I'll happily back him in the general and cast my vote for him. I believe that we are far better off today as a nation than we were when he took office in 1993. I won't say that I'm fully on board with this idea of a third term. I do have concerns about dynasties and what not. But my support for Bradley should not be seen as a rebuke of the president.
I support Senator Bradley because he is a very good man. He's a very good friend. I have known him for many years and worked with him on a great deal of issues. I have come to respect and trust him as a friend and a leader. I believe, without question, he would make an extraordinary president. And it would be my honor, my hope, to see him standing on the steps of our nation's capitol reciting the oath of office.
Daniel Patrick Moynihan's endorsement of Bill Bradley stung. I think most expected he would sit the election out and not endorse anyone out of respect of both Bradley and the President. Still, the campaign felt it was gaining some momentum in the wake of Clinton's announcement and though Moynihan had pull with many voters, he wasn't particularly effective in persuading other New York Democrats to join Bradley's campaign.
With a slew of our endorsements, Charlie Rangel, Gerry Ferraro and others, we countered the severity of Moynihan's endorsement pretty well. - A 21st Century Campaign (John Sasso)
With a slew of our endorsements, Charlie Rangel, Gerry Ferraro and others, we countered the severity of Moynihan's endorsement pretty well. - A 21st Century Campaign (John Sasso)
SEPTEMBER, 1999 - CLINTON REGAINS EDGE, LEADS BRADLEY BY 25 POINTS
President's lead grew 15 points the last month and a half
Bill Clinton found his mojo in late summer, rebounding strongly to recapture a solid lead over Bill Bradley for Democratic nomination.
IS BRADLEY DONE?
Lack of funds, and a surging Clinton have many doubting Bradley's chances
Bill Bradley's once vaunted campaign has petered out since Clinton's announcement for a third term.
Judy Woodruff, William Safire, David Brooks and David Broder discuss the struggling Bradley campaign.
President's lead grew 15 points the last month and a half
Bill Clinton found his mojo in late summer, rebounding strongly to recapture a solid lead over Bill Bradley for Democratic nomination.
Which candidate would you be most likely to support for the Democratic nomination for president in the year 2000?
Clinton had rebounded well heading into the final stretch of the primary season. Much of the undecideds had made up their mind and were overwhelmingly choosing the President, which was a bit of a surprise considering undecideds almost always break for challengers. But we were taking the string of good news and had hoped it would eventually carry over through to the primaries.
Where we felt we stood strongest was the fact we had battled back on the narrative that the President was weak. For a while there, specifically in the early parts of the summer, we looked down right beatable in many people's eyes and that narrative started, surprisingly enough, turning into a reality. We had to push back at it and the roll out of his campaign helped do just that.
For months, the message was that a great deal of Democrats did not support Clinton's third term run. But by September, those voices had trailed off a bit and the questioning Democrats were pinched enough so that they became less and less a threat and more of just a nuisance.
Because of this, we felt Clinton didn't need near the media presence that we initially expected out of the gate. By mid-September, he was back in Washington doing Presidential business, which I think helped support this image of a leader. The revised plan called for the President to hit the campaign trail again once December rolled around, make some final stops in Iowa and New Hampshire and hopefully wrap up the nomination fairly early. - A 21st Century Campaign (John Sasso)
- Bill Clinton: 55%(45)
- Bill Bradley: 40%(35)
- Undecided: 5% (20)
Clinton had rebounded well heading into the final stretch of the primary season. Much of the undecideds had made up their mind and were overwhelmingly choosing the President, which was a bit of a surprise considering undecideds almost always break for challengers. But we were taking the string of good news and had hoped it would eventually carry over through to the primaries.
Where we felt we stood strongest was the fact we had battled back on the narrative that the President was weak. For a while there, specifically in the early parts of the summer, we looked down right beatable in many people's eyes and that narrative started, surprisingly enough, turning into a reality. We had to push back at it and the roll out of his campaign helped do just that.
For months, the message was that a great deal of Democrats did not support Clinton's third term run. But by September, those voices had trailed off a bit and the questioning Democrats were pinched enough so that they became less and less a threat and more of just a nuisance.
Because of this, we felt Clinton didn't need near the media presence that we initially expected out of the gate. By mid-September, he was back in Washington doing Presidential business, which I think helped support this image of a leader. The revised plan called for the President to hit the campaign trail again once December rolled around, make some final stops in Iowa and New Hampshire and hopefully wrap up the nomination fairly early. - A 21st Century Campaign (John Sasso)
IS BRADLEY DONE?
Lack of funds, and a surging Clinton have many doubting Bradley's chances
Bill Bradley's once vaunted campaign has petered out since Clinton's announcement for a third term.
Bradley's campaign really grew in the early summer months of 2000 and it never could keep up with that growth. He tried, to be sure, but by fall, it was becoming more and more clear he needed something else to boost his efforts.
It's not easy unseating a sitting president and with Clinton still owning a high approval rating, specifically among Democrats, Bradley really needed to thread the needle. For a moment, with the endorsements of high-profiled figures like Bob Kerrey and Paul Wellstone, it looked like he might do it, or at least challenge the President in a very contested primary. But when the noise of endorsements died down and Clinton officially announced to a great deal of pomp and fanfare, Bradley just couldn't keep up.
I think it became quite obvious how little, in the end, endorsements matter. Bradley got a temporary bump from each endorsement he received, but they were never sustaining. They didn't bring in huge sums of cash and Clinton was still the establishment candidate, which helped reassure many Democratic voters who not only liked the guy, but wanted to win in 2000.
That's what made '00 so different from '92 and '80 when two other incumbent presidents faced primary challengers. In both years, not only were party members upset with the sitting president, they also weren't convinced he could win. Democrats knew Bill Clinton could win, even if, at the time, he trailed George W. Bush in the polls. Bradley was a nice guy with some nice ideas, but he wasn't Bill Clinton and he wouldn't carry the election. Only one guy was going to hold the White House for the Democrats and it was Clinton - not Bradley. - BUCKLE UP! The Election 2000 Thriller (Larry J. Sabato)
It's not easy unseating a sitting president and with Clinton still owning a high approval rating, specifically among Democrats, Bradley really needed to thread the needle. For a moment, with the endorsements of high-profiled figures like Bob Kerrey and Paul Wellstone, it looked like he might do it, or at least challenge the President in a very contested primary. But when the noise of endorsements died down and Clinton officially announced to a great deal of pomp and fanfare, Bradley just couldn't keep up.
I think it became quite obvious how little, in the end, endorsements matter. Bradley got a temporary bump from each endorsement he received, but they were never sustaining. They didn't bring in huge sums of cash and Clinton was still the establishment candidate, which helped reassure many Democratic voters who not only liked the guy, but wanted to win in 2000.
That's what made '00 so different from '92 and '80 when two other incumbent presidents faced primary challengers. In both years, not only were party members upset with the sitting president, they also weren't convinced he could win. Democrats knew Bill Clinton could win, even if, at the time, he trailed George W. Bush in the polls. Bradley was a nice guy with some nice ideas, but he wasn't Bill Clinton and he wouldn't carry the election. Only one guy was going to hold the White House for the Democrats and it was Clinton - not Bradley. - BUCKLE UP! The Election 2000 Thriller (Larry J. Sabato)
Judy Woodruff, William Safire, David Brooks and David Broder discuss the struggling Bradley campaign.
Tim Russert: This week, a new Gallup poll shows the President surging ahead of Democratic rival Bill Bradley, building on a 10 point lead from a July poll that showed the race tightening. Is Bill Bradley's campaign essentially over, or is there a way to battle back? Judy?
Judy Woodruff: It's not looking good for Bradley. He really needed to sustain momentum into the fall if he had any chance of making this a race and that doesn't appear to be the case now. You know, he gave a good fight and I think did better than many of us expected, but in the end, Clinton is Clinton and as many can attest, it's not easy beating this guy. He's a very talented campaigner and he successfully barnstormed these early primary states, got a ton of positive press out of it and really closed any door on a Bradley surge at the moment. I don't see, I really don't know, uh, how Bradley is going to make this a race again.
Tim Russert: Mr. Safire?
William Safire: Well, you know, this is literally the stretch run. There isn't much time to get back into this thing and you've got to think, you know, I agree with Judy, that in the end, he put up a great fight, made some noise, got out the issues he wanted to get out, but ultimately, you know, he's going to come up short. The fact Jimmy Carter, the most wounded incumbent president since Hoover, managed to fend off a primary challenge from Ted Kennedy, and in some ways, convincingly, just shows how difficult it is to unseat a sitting president. In some ways, you can't help but feel bad for Bradley because when he began this adventure some nine or so months ago, I doubt he felt he would be running against President Clinton. You know, he had been, the President, had been tied down with the whole Lewinsky affair and did not look like a viable candidate. He was able to get an approval boost, of course, and really rode that to the potential nomination, but I don't think that's what Bradley signed on for when he decided to run. He really, I think, anyway, really felt he would be running against Al Gore.
Tim Russert: Speaking of the Vice President, he's been campaigning with Clinton, but has not announced whether he'll seek a third term along with the President. The general consensus in Washington is that Gore won't seek the third term, leaving Clinton open to a new vice presidential candidate. Uh, what I want to know, if Clinton has to choose a new VP, who's he going with - uh, Mr. Brooks?
David Brooks: I think he'll look at Bob Graham of Florida mostly because if it's George W. Bush who he's going to face in the general, and I think, in the end, it will be, he'll need Florida and Jeb Bush is going to be a political force for his brother there. Graham is a moderate Democrat, a southerner and in the mold of what Clinton likes politically - someone centrist and someone, uh, who is, uh, not too risky. He's, uh, a, uh safe pick and a good pick. I think Graham would be a strong pick for the President because he's not someone who's, you know, ambitious and, you know, presidents like to have a number two who isn't about to shake the boat as much as someone with their eyes set on the presidency might. I think he'll want someone different than Al Gore because he got a very ambitious vice president who, you know, was, was not, as we've seen in this election, in this primary process, not exactly, or entirely, a team player. He wants that in a VP pick. He wants someone who will go to the mat for him and not question judgment. I think, from what I've heard, from who I've spoken to, Graham is a very loyal, very respectful guy and in that vein.
Tim Russert: Do you agree with that, uh, David - David Broder?
David Broder: Yes, yes, I think David is absolutely right here. Graham is probably on the short list if it's not Gore and I would think, in the end, very high on that short list. I would also add Bobb Kerrey, who, you know, endorsed Bill Bradley, but I think would be very open to taking the position if offered and - and I'll throw this out there, Bill Bradley. Here is a Democrat who was able to really energize a group of the party that has felt, at times, disenfranchised by the moderate wing and I think he would be a type unifying pick that would help deliver Democrats that might otherwise decide to sit this next election out.
Now I don't think Clinton would pick him because, to go back to what David is saying, the President probably wants a candidate who's, who's, you know, not going to be a stick in the mud on a lot of issues. Bradley is very proactive and I don't know if he would be able to go along with what he calls Clinton's tepidness just for the sake of the party and the presidency. So, in that regard, it's probably unlikely but it's also possible there is a situation that arises where Bradley might be the only guy Clinton can pick - you know, Bradley or someone like Wellstone in Minnesota, who's going to deliver the election. And, let's be honest, that's the bottom line. This is all about victory next November and Clinton knows this. He isn't running just to run. He's running to win and he'll do what is best for that bottom line, even if he has to stomach a Vice President who's maybe a bit more pushy than, say, Bob Graham or Bob Kerrey.
Judy Woodruff: It's not looking good for Bradley. He really needed to sustain momentum into the fall if he had any chance of making this a race and that doesn't appear to be the case now. You know, he gave a good fight and I think did better than many of us expected, but in the end, Clinton is Clinton and as many can attest, it's not easy beating this guy. He's a very talented campaigner and he successfully barnstormed these early primary states, got a ton of positive press out of it and really closed any door on a Bradley surge at the moment. I don't see, I really don't know, uh, how Bradley is going to make this a race again.
Tim Russert: Mr. Safire?
William Safire: Well, you know, this is literally the stretch run. There isn't much time to get back into this thing and you've got to think, you know, I agree with Judy, that in the end, he put up a great fight, made some noise, got out the issues he wanted to get out, but ultimately, you know, he's going to come up short. The fact Jimmy Carter, the most wounded incumbent president since Hoover, managed to fend off a primary challenge from Ted Kennedy, and in some ways, convincingly, just shows how difficult it is to unseat a sitting president. In some ways, you can't help but feel bad for Bradley because when he began this adventure some nine or so months ago, I doubt he felt he would be running against President Clinton. You know, he had been, the President, had been tied down with the whole Lewinsky affair and did not look like a viable candidate. He was able to get an approval boost, of course, and really rode that to the potential nomination, but I don't think that's what Bradley signed on for when he decided to run. He really, I think, anyway, really felt he would be running against Al Gore.
Tim Russert: Speaking of the Vice President, he's been campaigning with Clinton, but has not announced whether he'll seek a third term along with the President. The general consensus in Washington is that Gore won't seek the third term, leaving Clinton open to a new vice presidential candidate. Uh, what I want to know, if Clinton has to choose a new VP, who's he going with - uh, Mr. Brooks?
David Brooks: I think he'll look at Bob Graham of Florida mostly because if it's George W. Bush who he's going to face in the general, and I think, in the end, it will be, he'll need Florida and Jeb Bush is going to be a political force for his brother there. Graham is a moderate Democrat, a southerner and in the mold of what Clinton likes politically - someone centrist and someone, uh, who is, uh, not too risky. He's, uh, a, uh safe pick and a good pick. I think Graham would be a strong pick for the President because he's not someone who's, you know, ambitious and, you know, presidents like to have a number two who isn't about to shake the boat as much as someone with their eyes set on the presidency might. I think he'll want someone different than Al Gore because he got a very ambitious vice president who, you know, was, was not, as we've seen in this election, in this primary process, not exactly, or entirely, a team player. He wants that in a VP pick. He wants someone who will go to the mat for him and not question judgment. I think, from what I've heard, from who I've spoken to, Graham is a very loyal, very respectful guy and in that vein.
Tim Russert: Do you agree with that, uh, David - David Broder?
David Broder: Yes, yes, I think David is absolutely right here. Graham is probably on the short list if it's not Gore and I would think, in the end, very high on that short list. I would also add Bobb Kerrey, who, you know, endorsed Bill Bradley, but I think would be very open to taking the position if offered and - and I'll throw this out there, Bill Bradley. Here is a Democrat who was able to really energize a group of the party that has felt, at times, disenfranchised by the moderate wing and I think he would be a type unifying pick that would help deliver Democrats that might otherwise decide to sit this next election out.
Now I don't think Clinton would pick him because, to go back to what David is saying, the President probably wants a candidate who's, who's, you know, not going to be a stick in the mud on a lot of issues. Bradley is very proactive and I don't know if he would be able to go along with what he calls Clinton's tepidness just for the sake of the party and the presidency. So, in that regard, it's probably unlikely but it's also possible there is a situation that arises where Bradley might be the only guy Clinton can pick - you know, Bradley or someone like Wellstone in Minnesota, who's going to deliver the election. And, let's be honest, that's the bottom line. This is all about victory next November and Clinton knows this. He isn't running just to run. He's running to win and he'll do what is best for that bottom line, even if he has to stomach a Vice President who's maybe a bit more pushy than, say, Bob Graham or Bob Kerrey.
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I cant wait to see how Clintons third terms looks like, and how he will deal with Afghanistan, although I do wonder how if 9/11 happens how the stress of all that will affect his health
BRADLEY URGES CLINTON TO DEBATE
Tells New Hampshire Democrats election too important not to have an exchange of ideas
Bill Bradley called on President Clinton to agree to a debate before the primary voting begins early next year.
CLINTON GIVES OKAY FOR DNC TO SET UP DEBATE
Debate will be held next month in New Hampshire
President Clinton has agreed to debate Bill Bradley this December as the two gear up for the Iowa Caucus and New Hampshire primary.
DECEMBER, 1999 - ON DEBATE EVE, BRADLEY TRAILS CLINTON BY 30 IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
Bill Bradley's once promising campaign now finds itself in a big hole
A new WMUR/University of New Hampshire poll shows Pres. Clinton pulling away in the Granite State.
CLINTON & BRADLEY FINALLY DEBATE
Bradley hits President on ideology, fails to get knockout
In their first, and only scheduled debate of the primary season, Senator Bradley attacked Clinton on his moderate tepidness. Clinton, rarely invoking the Senator, mostly spoke of his record.
Tells New Hampshire Democrats election too important not to have an exchange of ideas
Bill Bradley called on President Clinton to agree to a debate before the primary voting begins early next year.
There were conflicting arguments on whether or not the President should debate Bill Bradley. Some of Clinton's reelection team felt it was a lose-lose situation and could undo all his momentum with one bad performance. They knew Bradley wanted to get the President on stage to deliver a blow that could get him back into the race.
On the other hand, you had some in the campaign who felt ducking a debate with Bradley would not go over well with many Democrats who were still lukewarm to support the President's reelection bid. This nomination was going to be Clinton's and he didn't need to risk upsetting a potential block of voters that could decide the election in November.
There was also a forming consensus that the debate could help Clinton establish his general election campaign, since more than Democrats would be watching. If he succeeded, at a time where Republicans were increasingly winning the media coverage war because of their contested primary, it could remind the American people why they went out and voted for him in four years ago and still support him as their leader.
Ultimately, though, it was Clinton's call. After some thought, and listening to both sides, he felt agreeing to one debate was the honorable thing to do because Bradley had invested a lot of time and energy into the campaign and he felt it would provide him a window to potentially woo Bradley voters for the general election. - A 21st Century Campaign (John Sasso)
On the other hand, you had some in the campaign who felt ducking a debate with Bradley would not go over well with many Democrats who were still lukewarm to support the President's reelection bid. This nomination was going to be Clinton's and he didn't need to risk upsetting a potential block of voters that could decide the election in November.
There was also a forming consensus that the debate could help Clinton establish his general election campaign, since more than Democrats would be watching. If he succeeded, at a time where Republicans were increasingly winning the media coverage war because of their contested primary, it could remind the American people why they went out and voted for him in four years ago and still support him as their leader.
Ultimately, though, it was Clinton's call. After some thought, and listening to both sides, he felt agreeing to one debate was the honorable thing to do because Bradley had invested a lot of time and energy into the campaign and he felt it would provide him a window to potentially woo Bradley voters for the general election. - A 21st Century Campaign (John Sasso)
CLINTON GIVES OKAY FOR DNC TO SET UP DEBATE
Debate will be held next month in New Hampshire
President Clinton has agreed to debate Bill Bradley this December as the two gear up for the Iowa Caucus and New Hampshire primary.
DECEMBER, 1999 - ON DEBATE EVE, BRADLEY TRAILS CLINTON BY 30 IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
Bill Bradley's once promising campaign now finds itself in a big hole
A new WMUR/University of New Hampshire poll shows Pres. Clinton pulling away in the Granite State.
If the Democratic primary for president were held today, which of the following would you support for the Democratic nomination: Bill Clinton...Bill Bradley...or someone else?
- Bill Clinton: 64%
- Bill Bradley: 35%
- Someone else: 1%
CLINTON & BRADLEY FINALLY DEBATE
Bradley hits President on ideology, fails to get knockout
In their first, and only scheduled debate of the primary season, Senator Bradley attacked Clinton on his moderate tepidness. Clinton, rarely invoking the Senator, mostly spoke of his record.
Peter Jennings: Senator Bradley, you've been critical of President Clinton's actions as an ideological leader. You've coined the phrase tepid moderatism in describing the Clinton Presidency. What exactly do you mean by that?
Bill Bradley: Well, Peter, I think the words pretty much sum up what I mean by it. I feel the President has, unfortunately, compromised one too many times with the Republicans and because of it, not only have we gotten a raw deal, but I think it's often left the President politically weak because the Republicans, I believe, have this sense that he'll roll over when the going gets tough and he doesn't really stand for anything. While I respect a great deal of what the President has done, I speak for many Democrats when I say he could have done so much more and there is definitely a belief among many party leaders, some of whom have endorsed me, and party members, voters, who agree with that sentiment [applause].
My concern, and the reason I stayed in this race, even when President Clinton announced he would run for a third term, is that a Clinton third term would be very much like his second, where little gets done and too much is compromised.
Look, I believe the next president needs to refocus the country's attention on healthcare, on the sustainability of our social programs, and, more importantly, enact bold legislation that takes advantage of the financial security we find ourselves in to build a better, stronger America as we head into the 21st Century [applause].
Peter Jennings: Mr. President, your response?
Bill Clinton: Well I think the American people would quite approve of a third term that looked very much like my second [applause]. We have seen remarkable economic growth and the financial security Senator Bradley talks about was made possible by a great deal of decisions he derides right here tonight [applause].
I understand that I have not been the most liberal president we've had. But when I stared down the Republicans in Congress, when I stared down Newt Gingrich on a budget deal that gave Americans a raw deal, I don't think the Republican Party looked at me as soft or felt that they could roll over me in the future [applause]. I don't think they felt I was going to give in on anything - an inch on whatever policy I felt hurt the American people [applause].
It is true, Senator Bradley, I have compromised and my presidency has been more inclusive than any other presidency in modern American history. But it's been inclusive, it's been the way it has, because, for the first time in a generation, we have a president who's willing to put the American people above petty, partisan politics [applause]. Now you might not like that, or agree entirely with it, but in this climate, in this reality, everything I've done, and everything I continue to do, is for those constituents who, for so, so long, have been voiceless in Washington [applause].
In my third term, we will continue building a viable economy that is geared for the 21st Century, while keeping our nation on the path to financial prosperity - both within the checkbooks of Americans and the government [applause].
Bill Bradley: Well, Peter, I think the words pretty much sum up what I mean by it. I feel the President has, unfortunately, compromised one too many times with the Republicans and because of it, not only have we gotten a raw deal, but I think it's often left the President politically weak because the Republicans, I believe, have this sense that he'll roll over when the going gets tough and he doesn't really stand for anything. While I respect a great deal of what the President has done, I speak for many Democrats when I say he could have done so much more and there is definitely a belief among many party leaders, some of whom have endorsed me, and party members, voters, who agree with that sentiment [applause].
My concern, and the reason I stayed in this race, even when President Clinton announced he would run for a third term, is that a Clinton third term would be very much like his second, where little gets done and too much is compromised.
Look, I believe the next president needs to refocus the country's attention on healthcare, on the sustainability of our social programs, and, more importantly, enact bold legislation that takes advantage of the financial security we find ourselves in to build a better, stronger America as we head into the 21st Century [applause].
Peter Jennings: Mr. President, your response?
Bill Clinton: Well I think the American people would quite approve of a third term that looked very much like my second [applause]. We have seen remarkable economic growth and the financial security Senator Bradley talks about was made possible by a great deal of decisions he derides right here tonight [applause].
I understand that I have not been the most liberal president we've had. But when I stared down the Republicans in Congress, when I stared down Newt Gingrich on a budget deal that gave Americans a raw deal, I don't think the Republican Party looked at me as soft or felt that they could roll over me in the future [applause]. I don't think they felt I was going to give in on anything - an inch on whatever policy I felt hurt the American people [applause].
It is true, Senator Bradley, I have compromised and my presidency has been more inclusive than any other presidency in modern American history. But it's been inclusive, it's been the way it has, because, for the first time in a generation, we have a president who's willing to put the American people above petty, partisan politics [applause]. Now you might not like that, or agree entirely with it, but in this climate, in this reality, everything I've done, and everything I continue to do, is for those constituents who, for so, so long, have been voiceless in Washington [applause].
In my third term, we will continue building a viable economy that is geared for the 21st Century, while keeping our nation on the path to financial prosperity - both within the checkbooks of Americans and the government [applause].
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Clinton was happy with his debate performance. He felt he took Bradley's best shots and didn't say or do anything that would alienate potential voters down the road. He ultimately felt he succeeded in treating Bradley with respect, deflecting his attacks with ease and rarely, if at all, going on the attack toward the Senator.
In the end, the polls pretty much backed up the President's take on the debates. Now that it looked increasingly likely he would wrap up the nomination by early 2000 and there wouldn't be a fierce primary fight well into the summer, President Clinton felt he could relax a bit, return to presidential business and recharge prior to what was looking more and more like a grueling general election. - A 21st Century Campaign (John Sasso)
In the end, the polls pretty much backed up the President's take on the debates. Now that it looked increasingly likely he would wrap up the nomination by early 2000 and there wouldn't be a fierce primary fight well into the summer, President Clinton felt he could relax a bit, return to presidential business and recharge prior to what was looking more and more like a grueling general election. - A 21st Century Campaign (John Sasso)
CLINTON LEADS IN FINAL IOWA POLL OF 1999
Bradley's campaign slows to a halt in final month before caucus
Bill Clinton holds a commanding lead over Bill Bradley in the Hawkeye State.
WORLD RINGS IN NEW CENTURY
CLINTON HOLDS FINAL IOWA RALLY
In speech to thousands, he asks for support to bring America into 21st Century
The Clinton family takes a private moment during their rally in Des Moines, Iowa, Sunday night
BRADLEY BARNSTORMS IOWA IN LAST EFFORT TO WIN VOTES
Polls show his campaign sinking, but the Senator is not deterred
"This Monday, I am sure of one thing - there will be an upset!"
IOWA CAUCUS RESULTS
INITIAL VOTES IN IOWA SHOW TIGHT RACE FOR GOP
President appears to be cruising to Iowa victory
CLINTON WINS BIG; BUSH SURVIVES
Iowa delivers President resounding victory
Georg W. Bush fended off a late surge by businessman Steve Forbes to win the 2000 Iowa Republican Caucus.
Bradley's campaign slows to a halt in final month before caucus
Bill Clinton holds a commanding lead over Bill Bradley in the Hawkeye State.
If the Democratic caucuses were today, and the following candidates were running, which one would be your first choice for president?
- Bill Clinton: 56%
- Bill Bradley: 21%
- Other: 23%
WORLD RINGS IN NEW CENTURY
CLINTON HOLDS FINAL IOWA RALLY
In speech to thousands, he asks for support to bring America into 21st Century
The Clinton family takes a private moment during their rally in Des Moines, Iowa, Sunday night
BRADLEY BARNSTORMS IOWA IN LAST EFFORT TO WIN VOTES
Polls show his campaign sinking, but the Senator is not deterred
"This Monday, I am sure of one thing - there will be an upset!"
On the eve of the Iowa Caucus, everyone felt pretty confident there would be no surprises. The campaign had swung in the President's favor the final months and the polls, those from the media and internal ones, showed no signs of a late surge from the Bradley campaign. That's what we kept our eyes on the most because, as we got closer to the caucuses, the fear was that some Democrats might ultimately decide to vote their heart instead of their head. But that shift in support never materialized and by Monday morning, with the President back in Washington and his Iowa staff doing its best to get the votes out, victory felt inevitable. - A 21st Century Campaign (John Sasso)
IOWA CAUCUS RESULTS
Judy Woodruff: Good evening, America and welcome to CNN's coverage of the 2000 Iowa Caucuses. Doors across the state have opened to potential caucus goers and with that, we can officially declare the start of the 2000 President election.
On the Republican side, George W. Bush, the governor of the state of Texas, enters tonight's caucus as the favorite, however, he's trying to fight back a resurgent campaign from businessman Steve Forbes.
In what very well could be a historical campaign, the Democrats look to renominate Bill Clinton for an unprecedented third time. He's battling New Jersey Senator Bill Bradley, who, for a time in this race, looked formidable. But lately, especially since the two debated last month, President Clinton has taken a lead in the polls here in Iowa - now the question, will that support in the polls translate to caucus goers?
I'm joined tonight by CNN's Election Team - Jeff Greenfield and Bernard Shaw. And we'll be joined a bit later by Bill Schneider.
So, as we await the entrance polls, Jeff, what exactly should we be looking for on both sides of the ideological divide?
Jeff Greenfield: Well Judy, for the Democrats, President Clinton obviously hopes that his lead in the polls translates, as you said, to votes - specifically, caucus goers here in Iowa. He doesn't want a close race. He doesn't want the perception that Bradley somehow managed a late surge, so anything less than five or six points from where the polls were prior to tonight would definitely be a disappointment. For Bradley's campaign, their hope resides in the undecideds - the unknowns. The voters who, up until today, have not yet decided whether or not they support President Clinton or Senator Bradley. They won't win this for Bradley tonight, as the margin is just too large, but they could make it far more closer than the initial polls indicated and that could give him momentum heading into New Hampshire.
For George W. Bush, the polls have favored him as of late and he needs them to deliver a victory here tonight. While Steve Forbes is probably not a legitimate challenger outside Iowa, a loss here could open New Hampshire to say, John McCain and if that happens, then the Bush Team will find itself in a competitive race. Like Bill Clinton, Bush is hoping that this race is essentially over by mid-February. He wants to turn his attention to the general. He wants to unite that moderate faction of the Republican Party and set his machine on President Clinton. Likewise, the President wants to unite the liberal-wing of the Democratic Party with those moderate voters who have supported his campaign and presidency since '92 and then, of course, turn his attention to winning the general election. The sooner the better for both campaigns. Right now, Forbes and Bradley, though, are trying to play spoilers. They want to push this well beyond January and February and then see where it goes.
Judy Woodruff: Bernard, is the primary winner going to be set tonight?
Bernard Shaw: I don't think so. Bush has a problem in New Hampshire that's forming with independent voters who very well could cross over and support McCain next month, especially if it looks like Bill Clinton will easily win the nomination. Look, I think things are a bit more settled on the Democratic side, but New Hampshire has proven in the past, and all you have to do is ask Bill Clinton because in '92, that was really where he began his comeback, to really throw the entire process on its head. For Bradley, he wants to gain some traction out of this because if he's blown out, with Clinton not being a favored son like, say, Harkin was eight years ago, it puts him in a tough spot to rebound well enough to somehow pull off an upset there. And if he loses tonight, which I think even the Bradley campaign is conceding, it's going to take more than a close finish in New Hampshire to get back into this race.
Now Bush, he wants as much momentum heading into New Hampshire as possible. McCain is waiting. He'll pounce if there is any sign of weakness coming out of this vote tonight.
Judy Woodruff: We're now joined by Bill Schneider, who has some early entrance polls that give us a good idea of what is transpiring across Iowa tonight. Bill are there any surprises?
Bill Schneider: Well Judy, there is one forming. Steve Forbes, the man not many people felt could win Iowa, based on our entrance polls, is giving Governor George W. Bush a run for his money. Right now, there you see the numbers, Bush narrowly holds a lead over Forbes, with Alan Keyes, who came on strong late, a pretty distant third.
But if these numbers hold, it's entirely possible Bush has a weaker than expected showing in the caucus tonight. Remember, most polls had him running away with the caucuses, but tonight, for the time being, he's getting a strong fight from Forbes.
On the Democratic side, the initial entrance polls indicate a very big victory for the President. We don't want to announce anything just yet, but it appears the President has done what they wanted him to do and win enough support to swamp Bill Bradley in Iowa.
On the Republican side, George W. Bush, the governor of the state of Texas, enters tonight's caucus as the favorite, however, he's trying to fight back a resurgent campaign from businessman Steve Forbes.
In what very well could be a historical campaign, the Democrats look to renominate Bill Clinton for an unprecedented third time. He's battling New Jersey Senator Bill Bradley, who, for a time in this race, looked formidable. But lately, especially since the two debated last month, President Clinton has taken a lead in the polls here in Iowa - now the question, will that support in the polls translate to caucus goers?
I'm joined tonight by CNN's Election Team - Jeff Greenfield and Bernard Shaw. And we'll be joined a bit later by Bill Schneider.
So, as we await the entrance polls, Jeff, what exactly should we be looking for on both sides of the ideological divide?
Jeff Greenfield: Well Judy, for the Democrats, President Clinton obviously hopes that his lead in the polls translates, as you said, to votes - specifically, caucus goers here in Iowa. He doesn't want a close race. He doesn't want the perception that Bradley somehow managed a late surge, so anything less than five or six points from where the polls were prior to tonight would definitely be a disappointment. For Bradley's campaign, their hope resides in the undecideds - the unknowns. The voters who, up until today, have not yet decided whether or not they support President Clinton or Senator Bradley. They won't win this for Bradley tonight, as the margin is just too large, but they could make it far more closer than the initial polls indicated and that could give him momentum heading into New Hampshire.
For George W. Bush, the polls have favored him as of late and he needs them to deliver a victory here tonight. While Steve Forbes is probably not a legitimate challenger outside Iowa, a loss here could open New Hampshire to say, John McCain and if that happens, then the Bush Team will find itself in a competitive race. Like Bill Clinton, Bush is hoping that this race is essentially over by mid-February. He wants to turn his attention to the general. He wants to unite that moderate faction of the Republican Party and set his machine on President Clinton. Likewise, the President wants to unite the liberal-wing of the Democratic Party with those moderate voters who have supported his campaign and presidency since '92 and then, of course, turn his attention to winning the general election. The sooner the better for both campaigns. Right now, Forbes and Bradley, though, are trying to play spoilers. They want to push this well beyond January and February and then see where it goes.
Judy Woodruff: Bernard, is the primary winner going to be set tonight?
Bernard Shaw: I don't think so. Bush has a problem in New Hampshire that's forming with independent voters who very well could cross over and support McCain next month, especially if it looks like Bill Clinton will easily win the nomination. Look, I think things are a bit more settled on the Democratic side, but New Hampshire has proven in the past, and all you have to do is ask Bill Clinton because in '92, that was really where he began his comeback, to really throw the entire process on its head. For Bradley, he wants to gain some traction out of this because if he's blown out, with Clinton not being a favored son like, say, Harkin was eight years ago, it puts him in a tough spot to rebound well enough to somehow pull off an upset there. And if he loses tonight, which I think even the Bradley campaign is conceding, it's going to take more than a close finish in New Hampshire to get back into this race.
Now Bush, he wants as much momentum heading into New Hampshire as possible. McCain is waiting. He'll pounce if there is any sign of weakness coming out of this vote tonight.
Judy Woodruff: We're now joined by Bill Schneider, who has some early entrance polls that give us a good idea of what is transpiring across Iowa tonight. Bill are there any surprises?
Bill Schneider: Well Judy, there is one forming. Steve Forbes, the man not many people felt could win Iowa, based on our entrance polls, is giving Governor George W. Bush a run for his money. Right now, there you see the numbers, Bush narrowly holds a lead over Forbes, with Alan Keyes, who came on strong late, a pretty distant third.
But if these numbers hold, it's entirely possible Bush has a weaker than expected showing in the caucus tonight. Remember, most polls had him running away with the caucuses, but tonight, for the time being, he's getting a strong fight from Forbes.
On the Democratic side, the initial entrance polls indicate a very big victory for the President. We don't want to announce anything just yet, but it appears the President has done what they wanted him to do and win enough support to swamp Bill Bradley in Iowa.
INITIAL VOTES IN IOWA SHOW TIGHT RACE FOR GOP
President appears to be cruising to Iowa victory
Judy Woodruff: We have a projection to make on the Democratic side. CNN is now ready to project, that when all the caucusing is complete, President Bill Clinton will win the Iowa Democratic Caucus by a wide margin. He defeats Senator Bill Bradley, who has spent millions of dollars and countless hours in the Hawkeye State working for every last vote. But for the Bradley campaign, a difficult November and December gave way to what we can classify as a solid victory for the President.
And there you see the totals - Clinton leads Bradley with roughly 70% of the vote to Senator Bradley's 22%. So, the President scores a monumental victory here tonight and obviously he hopes that will carry over to New Hampshire next month.
Jeff, what does this mean for the Bradley campaign?
Jeff Greenfield: Well it means, pretty much, New Hampshire is put up or shut up time for Bradley. If they can't win it - if they're not competitive - it's over. Bradley knows this. It'll be interesting to see what their strategy is heading forward, but, at the moment, it's hard to envision a scenario where Bill Clinton is not the Democratic nominee.
Judy Woodruff: Who he will face in November if he wins the Democratic nomination very well could be decided by tonight's Iowa results. And I have just gotten word that CNN is ready to project that George W. Bush will win the Iowa Caucuses. It's not a big victory like the governor had hoped for, but it is victory nonetheless and they weren't upset here like maybe they had feared when the entrance polls earlier tonight showed a very tight race between Forbes and Bush. But it looks like Governor Bush will win fairly comfortably, though not in dominant fashion.
And there you see the totals - Clinton leads Bradley with roughly 70% of the vote to Senator Bradley's 22%. So, the President scores a monumental victory here tonight and obviously he hopes that will carry over to New Hampshire next month.
Jeff, what does this mean for the Bradley campaign?
Jeff Greenfield: Well it means, pretty much, New Hampshire is put up or shut up time for Bradley. If they can't win it - if they're not competitive - it's over. Bradley knows this. It'll be interesting to see what their strategy is heading forward, but, at the moment, it's hard to envision a scenario where Bill Clinton is not the Democratic nominee.
Judy Woodruff: Who he will face in November if he wins the Democratic nomination very well could be decided by tonight's Iowa results. And I have just gotten word that CNN is ready to project that George W. Bush will win the Iowa Caucuses. It's not a big victory like the governor had hoped for, but it is victory nonetheless and they weren't upset here like maybe they had feared when the entrance polls earlier tonight showed a very tight race between Forbes and Bush. But it looks like Governor Bush will win fairly comfortably, though not in dominant fashion.
CLINTON WINS BIG; BUSH SURVIVES
Iowa delivers President resounding victory
Georg W. Bush fended off a late surge by businessman Steve Forbes to win the 2000 Iowa Republican Caucus.
Final results:
Democratic Caucus:
Republican Caucus:
Democratic Caucus:
- Bill Clinton: 68.3%
- Bill Bradley: 25.4%
- Undeclared: 7.1%
Republican Caucus:
- George W. Bush: 40.99%
- Steve Forbes: 30.50%
- Alan Keyes: 14.24%
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Just started reading this, am on third or fourth post.
For what it's worth, my sympathy with the whole anger-at-GOP thing (HRC deciding that vengeance would be sweet) had me mentally playing "Rage Against The Machine" for the soundtrack while reading this.
Hitting the subscribe button as soon as I post this.
(Of course, from otl, it's a bit too easy for me to say "Yeah! F Gore! F the GOP! YEAH!" etc.)
For what it's worth, my sympathy with the whole anger-at-GOP thing (HRC deciding that vengeance would be sweet) had me mentally playing "Rage Against The Machine" for the soundtrack while reading this.
Hitting the subscribe button as soon as I post this.
(Of course, from otl, it's a bit too easy for me to say "Yeah! F Gore! F the GOP! YEAH!" etc.)
Quote:
Originally Posted by zeppelin247
although I do wonder how if 9/11 happens how the stress of all that will affect his health
No comment.
Oh crap.
For what it's worth, I was thinking just this moment about Bill's multiple bypass surgery...
It's rare that you find a TL where bush is smart...hint hint (hey it's called alternate history after all )
)