Chelsea says Lewinsky scandal is off limits, is she right?
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
For the second time in two weeks, Chelsea Clinton has been asked a question about the Monica Lewinsky scandal.
Campaigning for her mother at North Carolina State University yesterday, a student brought up the scandal that lead to the impeachment of Bill Clinton. The student said Chelsea should have answered the question because it happened while her father was president of the United States.
But the former first daughter was having none of it, saying quote, "It's none of your business. That is something that is personal to my family. I'm sure there are things personal to your family that you don't think are anyone else's business either." Unquote
Chelsea also said she doesn't think people should "vote for or against my mother because of my father."
The student yesterday defended asking the question saying, "I feel that it is our business because he was president at the time."
Yesterday's encounter followed a similar one at Butler University last week when a student asked the former First Daughter whether the Lewinsky scandal had hurt her mother's reputation. Again Chelsea responded with, "I don't think that is any of your business."
While campaigning for her mother Chelsea has refused to answer questions from the press as well.
Here’s my question to you: Chelsea Clinton says the Lewinsky scandal is none of the public's business. Is she right?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Tom writes:
None of your business is the correct answer I' m surprised her father didn't say the same thing.
Marie from Noonan, Georgia writes:
No, that is not off limits. I think the student that asked if the incident damaged Hillary's credibility had every right to ask the question. Hillary's response was to blame a right-wing conspiracy. That was far from the truth. She knew her husband had been unfaithful in the past. I also feel that Chelsea gave the wrong answer. It is our business if they want us to vote for Hillary.
Greg writes:
A more interesting question to ask Ms. Clinton is could she please explain why she fully supported her mother's statement that they were under fire from snipers in Bosnia and had to run to armored vehicles for their safety when video evidence proved that none of that happened?
Erin writes:
It became the public's business when her father scandalized the oval office and trampled on the public trust. Chelsea and her parents seem to think she can be used as a specially protected arm of the Clinton machine, when, in fact, she should be no more protected from such questions than anyone else. I'd like to see Bill claim it's nobody's business. I think we ALL would have preferred not to know his sexual exploits but it was he–and he alone–who made it our business. Just another bed the Clintons have to learn to lie in Jack!
Joan from Orlando, Florida writes:
Yes Chelsea Clinton is absolutely right. The Monica Lewinsky scandal is over and people need to move on to more pressing topics like the economy, gas, healthcare and the Iraq war.
Paul from Scranton, PA writes:
Monica-gate should be off limits. This conversation should start and end with Bill. Hillary and Chelsea were unwilling bystanders.
Denise writes:
With all due respect to Chelsea, she is wrong. It is the public business because her father was the president of the United States of America and lied to the American people straight in our faces to cover his adulterous acts performed in OUR HOUSE. And finally, Chelsea is not a little girl anymore, if she can't take the heat, she should stay off the campaign trail.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
Like mom and dad she makes up the rules as she goes.
I believe that none of my children should be asked about my past life good or bad... Those questions should be directed to me Jack...Now that being said when is the rest of the country going to wake up and realize that the Clinton's are not the folks we need to lead this country any more...With all the issues the Clinton's are involved in last time they they invaded the White House...I not ready to explain any more to my children.
Team Clinton needs to be baptized again and repent...God bless them because I can't...
This "woman" is almost 30 years old and for her to think that she can go support her Mother and rail against McCain and Obama but say things are off limits to her? One has to ask who the hell she thinks she is? Just another sad case of the media letting a Clinton dictate the rules that don't apply to everyone else. Imagine what the reaction would have been to Mrs. Obama if she had taken that stance when ask about their pastor.
No way Jack. She's been asked two valid questions so far and more are coming. America is naturally curious and we have questions. If she is going to stump for her mother, she should come to terms with the fact that she is going to be asked a lot questions...some she won't want to answer, but the public will ask them anyway. I think America is tired of having a president and vice-president that tell us it's not our business...it's a private matter...it's a matter of national security...blah blah blah. We don't want that in a presidential candidate, let alone her daughter. Americans should be very concerned with happens in the White House, that includes the after hours behaviour of our presidents.
And what else is to be off limits.....
It seems to me if someone is going to actively campaign for support of a candidate then questions are to be expected – and not only ones that are welcome.
In point of fact – the situation was very much a part of the political scene whe Clinton denied "having sexual relations with that woman". Credibility is a big issue – but this area is not up for scrutiny.
My advice would be if you do not want questions – do not campaign. If you do want questions – you should not expect to pick and choose.
Jack, As a life long democrat i hate sounding like a hypocrit...at the time of lewinsky i felt it was a non issue. God knows there are 4000 reasons to impeach the current president. However its time for the media and the country to stop treating Chelsea like the child of years ago. If she is out on the stump then any ? should be open game. And at this point she should have a better answer to this question..maybe the most appalling thing is that the campaign itself hasnt given her an appropriate response. She is no longer a teenager.... Do we still look at danny bonaduce as the smart alecky kid from the partridge family?
No problem once in while but we only heard "Monika" about a hundred thousand times before.
Yes it certainly is. I seem to remeber impeachment calls, news conferences and investigations. That makes it very much the public's business, and on that point Chelsea is wrong. What Chelsea should be saying is that it isn't anyones business to ask HER. Asking the daughter of a troubled couple about her opinion in public is about as taseful and purposeful as asking someone if they think their Mom is hot. Though I'd normally say that if she wants to be a big girl and stump that she'd have to answer even the difficult questions, I believe that common deceny makes an exception here.
Jack,
First it was no questions from the press, now its no questions if they are inconvenient. If she insists on campaigning for her mother she is fair game. She should be obliged to answer any questions that come her way, including from reporters. What she is doing is the equivalent of going to Basra and asking to not be shot at. Will you guys at CNN stop saying that she handled the question well... dodging a question can hardly be considered that.
Mike, montreal
Sorry Chelsea but its all fair game. If Obama could be questioned over and over about things his pastor said in the past, then any Clinton should be adult enough to handle any questions about Lewinsky.
Why should the Clintons expect a free pass on things Bill did and said? If you were brave enough to jump in the political fray with Mummy & Daddy, be brave enough to answer the questions especially since you had nothing to do with the whole 'affair'.
Monica is off limits for Chelsea But what about the IMPEACHMENT that's a fair question.
Jack,
I think Chelsea is incorrect in her reply. Anything an elected official does that affects his or her morality, or integrity affects those of us who trusted that official enough to vote them in office . So, it is no longer a private matter. If she is going to campaign for and solicit votes for her mother, she should be prepared to answer questions in a way that are not prudent or evasive. She could very well have said: "I think I will have to reserve that question for my mother to answer".
Shirl,
Allen, Texas
Jack:
I don't believe anything is off limits when it comes to your history and background when running for president. It's essentially the most responsibility laden job, I believe, in the world. Everything matters.
If Hillary heeded the advice of many Dems and even Kenny Rogers, we wouldn't be having this discussion........"You've got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em, know when to walk away, know when to run". By the way, love your segment.
Susan
Hawley, PA
No, She is not. If she gonna be stomping for her mother, she better prepare for tough questions. She can't be out there around young people in campus and expect chicken questions. Our young people are the powerful voice in this election, they deserve to ask her questions why she think that her mother( a woman that calls another woman a B.... word) is the best candidate. And Lewinsky question is not off limits because it still smells and sticks around Bill's face.
A more interesting question to ask Ms. Clinton is could she please explain why she fully supported her mother's statement that they were under fire from snipers in Bosnia and had to run to armored vehicles for their safety when video evidence proved that no of that happened. Sen. Clinton, after repeating that anecdote three times, then claimed she had misspoken due to fatigue. Was Chelsea also fatigued when she said her mother's initial statements were accurate?
How in the world does knowing her husband cheated on her effect how she would run the country? It was her husband's actions, not hers. Her husband lied, not her.
No, she's not right, Jack. I believe most Americans respect the personal side of their story, but the fact of the matter is, the Monica story happened in the Whitehouse (the public's house), and her father lied under oath – A public matter.
Sorry, Chelsea, but daddy put you and Mom in an uncomfortable position, when he was "on duty." That makes it public.
Of course Chelsea is right. The entire Lewinski affair should have presided over by a marriage counselor, not the congress of the united States. If the rabid, bible-thumping, neo-con, religious fanatics had not pushed the issue so much it would have been settled in the privacy of the Clinton home. And sad to say, it is this abuse of power by the republicans along with Newt Gingrich's Contract with America (a.k.a. declaring war on America's poor and underpriviledged) that I will never, ever, under any circumstance vote for a republican candidate for any office! The Congress of the United States is elected by the people, to serve the people, not the corporate interests.
I would not ask a question about Lewinsky but other people will. If the Clintons choose to send her out on the campaign trail to try and draw in young voters – they need to give her a "Clinton answer" for the question. She after all is 28 years old and most of the students that she is talking with are much younger than she is. They aren't old enough to know the Bill and Monica history.
I think people have a right to ask and Chelsea has the right to comment as she did before.
It became the public's business when her father scandalized the oval office and trampled on the public trust. Chelsea and her parents seem to think Chelsea can be used as a specially protected arm of the Clinton machine when, in fact, she should be no more protected from such questions as anyone else. I'd like to see Bill claim it's nobody's business. I think we ALL would have preferred not to know his sexual exploits but it was he–and he alone–who made it our business. Just another bed the Clintons have to learn to lie in Jack!
I have thought about this since she came on the campaign trail. Once you become a surrogate for a candidate any question is on the table. She is no longer a child and her parents knew full well the peril of this but needed her for the youth vote. Her continued need to be shielded is a bad sign-she answers no questions from the press but expects to be taken , whole cloth, as a credible spokes person for her mother!
I feel sorry for her. This is a position, I- mother of an only daughter- would never expose my daughter tooo.
Monicagate should be of limits. This conversation should start and end with Bill. Hillary and Chelsea were unwilling bi-standers.
What about the millions of men and women who cheat on their partners? Should we address the same question to them? Lets get out of this puritan mind set and stop being so prudish about sex.
How can she say "it is none of the public's business!!!" The entire scandal was "aired" to the public and carried out "in the public", therefore it has always been the public's business. Apparently, she just can't handle it.....I can imagine that it is still a painful episode that she would soon forget (so would her mother) but the harsh reality is that this is politics and "all is fair in love and war"!!!!!
oh......from Alexandria, LA
She said what her father should have said " It' none of your business" This is the correct answer now and then.
If she is out there it should be open season for her. It just goes to show you that the Clinton's think they are above everyone else. Their darling little daughter can go stump for votes, but not answer every question. Give me a break! If you can't be in the big leagues Chelsea you need to get out.
Lori from Battle Creek, MI
Hey Jack:
She is wrong. She has chosen to be in the Clinton Trio. She is a surrogate for her parents' war in this contest and so it is fair in love and war. At 28, she is not a child.
Carmen, Toronto Canada
it was our business at the time it happened but to dig it up for the election is a bit rude. Especially to bring up to Chelsea. She has suffered enough about the whole ordeal, I am sure. Some people enjoy making others hurt.
Jack,
No, the country should have an open dialog about this. It was a stressful time for all of us and although it was probably painful for the Clinton's it was equally painful for the country. Bill Clinton balanced the budget, created wealth for many including myself and brought in the war in Kosovo under budget and without any casualties but that gets overshadowed by the Lewinsky scandal. Whenever someone asks any of the Clinton's about this they should point out the differences between Bill and Bush. Yes Bush was faithful to Laura but he cheated and lied on his country. Given the choice of the two I think any sane person would choose Bill. That is what I think Chelsea should say.
Jack, seems like old news to me....folks are well aware of that whole debacle and while I guess nothing is off limits it's a bit tiresome for me. These are scary times for most of us and I can't remember ever feeling so uncertain about my (our) future and for sure there are more serious and thought provoking questions you could ask. Enough with Monica already!
Jack,
No doubt anyone has a right to ask a question , but she also has a right to tell them where to go too. Oh I almost forgot , Jack, you need something negative to report about the Clintons . You wouldn't want to make a boo boo on that. Not with the good score you have.
None of your business is the correct answer I' m surprised her father didn't say the same thing
First let me begin by saying I would not ask about Lewinsky but other people will. If the Clintons choose to send her out on the campaign trails to draw in young voters – they need to give her a "Clinton answer" to use. I'm sure that those times won't be the last time it will be asked about. Chelsa is 28 years old and most of the students that she is talking with are a whole lot younger than she.
She's absolutly right, I mean how old was she when this happened, this is something that should be between husband and wife, at least they stayed together and didn't get a divorce like most people would have done in todays times.
why not ?
that;s part of Clinton White House history !!
seattle, Wa
The only reason Chelsea says its off limits is due to the fact that it reminds people about Hillary during a weak and vulnerable time. Many people believe if she is such a strong woman she would have left Bill, since it's not the first time Bill has stepped out on Hillary. I think that Chelsea should not be campaigning for her mother if she is not ready to handle difficult questions. She can't choose to answer all of the nice questions and be nasty to people when they ask you a controversial question. Young people are not falling for it anyway. Obama already has majority of the young voters. They are not excited about a 60 year old.
Hi Jack ,
I think Chelsea is very right in saying that the Lewinsky scandal is not the public business, this has been a forgone conclusion and there was closure to that effect.Why would someone try to intimidate her with such a useless question at a time when Americans needed to ask her what her mom ought to do for them if elected president given the messy state that EVIL GEORGEBUSH put you all in.
I think the American media is so petty and sometimes absurd to we foreign viewers of your media.
Please be a bit civilised and stop broadcasting such childish encounters.
Chelsea is dead wrong. The Monica Lewinsky scandal didn't happen at her private residence but at the residence of tax payers. And if that wasn't enough tax payers paid for hearings.
This must be an April Fool's joke, right?
Jack , no it should not be off limits after all her mom is running for president. If Hillary gets into the White House it would be her turn to pay Bill back. I would be embrassed to answer that question too, go figure.
jack, i suppose that it was a sensitive subject for chelsea and im sure there were many moments of pain, but she isnt a tween anymore and she is out campaining for billary..she has gotten a free pass for far too long..she is 27ish she kan choose to answer or not but lets be a big girl about it though. winston-salem nc.
I agree this has been so over used . Why don't these people ask about the issues, not something so irevalent?
They would not think about asking Obama such a stupid question. Why not ask Obama what he has done in the Senate, even his advisors coulld not think of anything. He is an empty suit.
As unfortunate as the incident may be and however it may have been misused for political purposes, it is a public matter. Her feelings about it, on the other hand, are hers to share or not.
I think it's important to "rewind the tape" and see exactly what she referred to with her response.
Absolutely, she's right. That might be a fair question to ask Hillary since she is running for president. She's the one who would know how the affair would affect her as president. But Chelsea isn't a candidate, so she shouldn't have to deal with her father's infidelity in a public setting.
Anne
Texas
Jack,
It is unfortunate that we live in a society where nothing is private. Having saying that Chelsea is a big girl and she must step to the stump if she continues to campaign on her mother's behalf otherwise she must take Bill and Hillary and go indoors.
Tosha-Atlanta, GA
If it's not of people business, why should they even care and vote for her mother ??? It's everyone's business because Bill Clinton was president when all this happened in the White House.
It clearly shows that Chelsea is unqualified to campain for her mother if she cannot find a bette answer to that question.
Chelsea is right. The Lewinsky issue is old news. Just like the Bosnia issue is old news. Now, how about some new news. For example, Lou Dobbs poll noted 73% of voters believe that MEDIA BIAS towards Senator Clinton is real. While I'm not casting aspersions Jack, perhaps it is time to ask what bias you hold towards Mrs. Clinton?
Of course she's right, but keep in mind she is talking about a slack jawed nation who spends dozens of hours watching detailed, in depth salacious analyses of where Lindsay Lohen went wrong, what Britney should do and documenting the minutes Paris spent in jail. We are in a tabloid nation of overly scrutenizing hypocrites. People think they know what happened back then and it's embarrassing as an American to have to remind them that they don't.
Yeah. She's right. It's old news that was overhyped even when it was new news.
Keith Hood
Ann Arbor, MI
Jack,
As far as I know, Bill Clinton is not running for anything this year. I also have not heard from any news agency about any suspicious stains on Hillary's clothing. Until we hear otherwise, let's give the kid a break.
This country is confronted by serious problems ... too many to list in a short email. Solutions to these is what I want to hear about ... from the candidates and the press.
Issues of character matter ... all we know about Hillary regarding the Lewinsky matter is that she made a choice ... to reconcile and stay married. I respect that. I did not vote for her ... but I respect the fact that she made a personal choice ... one that should remain personal, and outside the realm of public scrutiny on a slow news day!
Rick Shultz Medina, OH
If you are running for public office nothing is off records, and if you choose to involve your daughter she will be asked everything. The Clinton campaign has become nothing but an ego trip.
No, it became public business when the President committed perjury. She has a right to refuse to answer the question but her handling of it has been done poorly. She should expect more to question her on it.
No, it isn't off limits Jack.
It happened on company time and hard consequences were suffered by the American people.
If a few questions about the effects of it come up once in a while and those questions are a little embarrassing, tough.
The Clintons do not own the White House.
Do all the women who blindly support Hillary just because she is a woman realize that a vote for Hillary is a vote for Bill?
Do you really want him back behind a White House desk, ladies?
I totally agree with Chelsea Clinton. It is irrelevant and has absolutely nothing to do with Hillary running for President. I can't for the life of me understand why anyone would think the Lewinsky scandal is relevent. Hillary believed Bill when he said he didn't have sexual relations with that woman. She assumed (as do a lot of jilted spouses) that someone was lying on her poor, innocent husband. His mistakes are not her mistakes. Questions like that show that some people think they can get 5 minutes of fame for trying to embarrass Chelsea. I can guarantee if it were their parents, they would react the same way. It is none of anyone's business.....leave them alone. How tacky can you get?
Hi
I have been watching you for months and finally took the time
to write. About the subject of super delegates, If these people
sit there waiting and sharpening their swords to make a decision
that should not be given them I will seriously start a campaign to
try to unseat them. I am from Michigan love me some (Jen) Governor
Granholm with a lot of favor but all of us are embarassed enough
if she has to go so be it.
When Chelsea was young and in the Whitehouse, it was understandable to protect her. She is now an adult, and has chosen to help in this campaign. Being a politician, your life is an open book. (This is one reason, I will never run for any office. ) If you are asked an uncomfortable question, you just need to be prepared to answer in the best way. Her answer could of been, "my mother has handled many tough situations in her career, which has made her even stronger". Chelsea could of made a positive of an uncomfortable situation. She has now left herself open to more questions..
Nobody has a perfect family, and this has nothing to do with the election, however, she is a grown woman and not the "child of the President" as she once was. She should make herself available to the press.
Of course it should NOT be used against Hillary in this campaign, but I have little doubt that the media will indeed try to bring the affair up every chance they get, even though it was not Mrs Clinton's fault that it happened. This is old news, it happened more than ten years ago, and Hillary was obviously completely blamesless in the whole thing. Get over it.
Hillary Clinton is running for president. Can there really be something, anything?, that is off limits to the people when it is about who will be next president? So much of what Hillary has to recommend her is her time at Bill's side in the Whitehouse. Being an attorney, she must know that she has herself opened the door to a cross-examination of those years by the press and by the people–whether that be a tarmac in Tuzla or a back room off the Oval Office.
it is,lets not forget that,that was an abuse of public office and most americans if not all forgave her dad.moreover,chelsea is rude as i believe there more diplomatic ways of answering questions other than telling folks that is non of their business.
kelvin
charlotte,North Calorina.
Chelsea and the Clinton campaign are wasting a golden opportunity to highlight Hillary's human qualities in not only facing but turning around such a painful part of their lives and become one of the most influential persons in the Democratic party.
Bill Clinton said that if a candidate does not want to get criticized or get bloodied then she should not run for office. I agree, since all private issues become public issues. In absence of other indicators, how a candidate handles private matters is a good indication of how she will handle public matters.
All this double talk seems to be part of a broader Clinton strategy to make sure if Hillary is not the Democratic candidate, then no Democratic candidate wins in November. Think about it. If a Democrat wins, most likely he will win for eight years. If McCain wins, he will lead Americans to economic disaster so the public will be hungry for a Democrat four years from now. At that point, perhaps every Democrat have learned of Hillary's divine right to be the Democratic candidate and she will be nominated.
Of course she's right. What more do we need to know about it? That the country fixated on a sexual scandal to the point that a president unnecessarily faced impeachment over it? That it must have been a difficult time for all of the members of his family? With all there is to discuss as this primary season continues, the fact that Obama’s supporters continue to raise this issue says a great deal about the kind of campaign he is choosing to run. Wouldn't it be great if CNN and all of the media simply stopped reporting on this issue every time it was raised somewhere and simply reported on what is truly newsworthy?
Hey Jack,
That's her opinion and she has every right to voice it.
But I'll thell you what! I think the press,and most of America treats her like it was still in the early 90's. She is a 28 year old woman and if she wants he privacy fine! stay home! As her dad say's if you don't want to get roughed up dont put on the pad's!
If she's going to go out and stump for her mom, She'll have to get use to answering some tough questions!
Unless your the President like Bush, then you can have the secret service weed out the undesireables.
Ray,Florida
She is absolutely right! The Lewinsky affair is being brought up only to embarrass the Clintons, it has no bearing on this campaign. It is offensive to the campaign and those Obamamoonies should realize that it adds to the increasing number of things people find offensive about Obama and are looking for reasons not to vote for him.
Sure, sure: the public shouldn't get involved in something that is ultimately between a wife and husband. Which leads to my question: why the hell is Hillary Clinton still sticking with a man who cheated on her with who knows how many other women?
Anthony
London, England
The Lewinsky affair should never have been a matter of public concern, but thanks to the prurient interests of the media and certain republicans, the affair was blown out of proportion. Of course, Chelsea Clinton is right.
Sexual preference is none of the public's business. Every time I think we have weeded out the Puritans among us, up they pop! They must be the most sexually repressed people in the world.
No she is not right jack and I am Very surprised the monica lewinsky Scandal haven't came up before and think one of the reason is because Barack Doesn't Believe in the Kitchen sink strategy. The things that happened with Bill and Monica is far game she is out asking for people to vote for her Mother But can not take tough questions? This is the same Flip Flop style that we have grown accoustmed too when dealing with the Clinton's!
if we can't say obama's middle name then we shouldn't bring up the Lewinsky scandal. a real tasteless question.
Yes she is right. It is over and done with let it go away. She was just a child when this happened. I am sure she has a personal opinion but the operative word is personal. Get back to the issues economy, war, oil supply and record profits and tax cuts for oil companies. Oh, by the way Jack don't you just want to ask those people asking those questions who put them in the audiance. The last guy could not even wait for the answer.
Absolutely! It is every child's nightmare thought...thinking about their parents having sex. Add in a mistress and it gets that much more disgusting! If someone wants to know about an old issue versus the enormous problems facing this Country today, they should go to the source and ask Hillary and Bill. Then they should get a life! Sounds like a plant from the opposition. Regardless, asking the daughter a question like that shows the lack of intergrity of some people.
Wildwood Crest, NJ
No she is not right Jack as a surrogate for her mom and her out campaigning as vigourously as she have for the young vote i fell she should answer every question proposed to her our stop campainging plain and simple. I hope they Keep asking her until she answers the question.
YES!
Jack, when you should to run for the president of the highest office on Earth, there is nothing off limit. So, I think Chelsea ought stop whining, face questions and adequately answers them.
The fact is that the Bill Clinton was impeached because of the Monica Lewinsky debacle - so it is part of our country's history, not just Chelsea Clinton's personal family history. Millions of our tax dollars were used to impeach her father - and it is forever part of our country's history.
Chelsea Clinton is nearly 30-years old, a successful business person and has had plenty of time to come to terms with the affair that not just caused impeachment for her father, but led to the Democratic party losing the governors, the Senate and the Congress due to the questions surrounding her father's behavior. The Democrats lost the White House because of that affair - and the ongoing questions about the integrity of the White House under Bill Clinton.
All Chelsea Clinton would have to say is that that period in her family's life was beyond difficult - and that I've forgiven my father and it made me respect my mother all the more. But her indignation only confirms that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. The fact that Chelsea Clinton backed up her mother's lies about THEIR trip to Bosnia - is all I need to know that I won't vote for Hillary - and I won't soft pedal around Chelsea Clinton - Grow up Chelsea!
I am a 50-year old woman who will vote for Obama! If you want status quo, vote for Clinton or McCain. If you want real change, vote for Obama.
Unfortunately, the Lewinsky scandal is the defining period in the Clinton presidency. If Hillary manages to somehow get the nomination (very unlikely), they will all be asked a lot about that period. They need to get used to it.
Jack,
First of all, with the U.S. in decline in almost every measurable aspect, what kind of idiot would ask the question? Let me guess, a Republican trying to change the subject away from what is really going on or some one who only thinks from below the waist. Oh, sorry that was redundant.
Mike C.
Wethersfield, CT
Absolutely she is right. Nor the news media, or the public has no right to private family matters. The matter was dealt with from the legal aspect, resolved, and closed. Unless a new definition of PRIVATE has evolved, no point in dwelling on it.
Why are the clintons even in the race still? What are they thinking? Over 90% of black people have supported Barack Obama. Obama has more votes, more delegates, and more states and unless Hillary won every state left by 75% or more, (unlikely) she can only win via superdelegates. How do the Clintons think African-Americans across America would react to another election robbery, whether it be real or perceived is irrelevant? I would guess that whatever tension you felt awaiting the verdicts of the Rodney King trial or the O.J. trial, you could just multiply that times a hundred while the Democratic National Convention is convening. Somebody needs to tell Hillary that you can't stop Republican Imperialist wars overseas by restarting sleeping race wars at home. Is Hillary a big enough person to sacrifice her own personal dreams to do what's best for America? I think the very real threat of riots, fires and looting needs to be taken into consideration. Blacks have waited a long time for this and they have overwhelmingly thrown their voice behind Barack Obama. Are you listening Hillary?
It would be right if Hillary was running on her record alone, but she's not. No fair to take credit for all the good stuff and not want to deal with the things that aren't so great. I appreciate the fact that this may be something that affect the Clinton's as a family, but it also affected the country when Bill elected to lie to the Grand Jury and was subsequently impeached.
Martha Marton, USA citizen in Ontario Canada
If Chelsea is going to campaign on behalf of someone trying to be the President of our great country, no questions should be off limits. This particular question is about a scandal that occurred while her father was on our payroll, and her mother was at home. What does this say about her mother's character, her ability to understand what the heck is going on around her, and what her reaction to bad news would be as President. Lot's. Should NOT be off limits.
Of course it is relevant, when that Red Phone rings at 3:00 a.m. we need to know who is going to answer it!
She is absolutely right! That is past history and her parents' past history. If Hillary was found to be "involved" with someone NOW, then yes, it would be our business because she is running for the highest office. I admire Chelsea for sticking to her guns and not taking questions from the press if she doesn't want to. (I'll bet the candidates wish they didn't have to!)
In the capacity of a family member, how is one entitled to tout mom's fitness for public office and at the same time say that a family matter which also involved betrayal of the public trust is somehow off limits?
No... It was done in the whitehouse while tax payers were paying his salary. As I said before it is an honest question. Someone should answer it. Although umm Bill would probably still say he did not have sexual relations with that woman. Wonder if he will take his own words to heart and CHILL OUT. To have been one of the two presidents impeached out of all presidents we have had speaks volumes to me. Obama answered tough questions about his preacher so why shouldnt Hillary answer about her husbands past? If they do answer it I would have to wonder though how much truth is actually in the response.
Obama 08
April in Austin Texas
Personally, I feel that Chelsea IS right. What happened with Monica Lewinsky and President Clinton should never have been brought to the light of day by the then Republican majority, especially given that Newt and some of his boys were doing the exact same thing! Talk about the pot calling the kettle black.
AND, I think subverting our most precious document the Constitution, lying the country into an unprovoked war, looting our treasury and dishonoring our soldiers are offenses much, much worse than lying about a consensual sex act. After all, to quote a friend of mine, "If a lady wants to give a man a blow job, it's nobodies business but their own."
Jack, I think it is inappropriate to ask Chesea Clinton about her dad's affair. I want Obama to win, but not with dirty tactics as with the questions poised to Miss Clinton. It is low ball politics and I don't want to see or hear it.
It is certainly of-limits for Chelsea. Her answer was dead on. It should be off limits for Hillary but there always insensitive media. For Bill, it has played out long ago.
While I applaud Chelsea for the way she is responding to the Lewinsky questions and empathize with her, the issue is a public matter. Her father's lack of self control ended in a presidential impeachment hearing. The question can be ducked for now, but if Senator Clinton becomes the Democratic nominee, we'll be reliving this episode and every other scandal associated with the Clintons 24/7 through the November election.
...Jack I thought it was no ones business 12 years ago and time hasn't changed my opinion..
The Lewinsky scandal is absolutely our business since it happened during Bill's time in office, Monica was an intern at the time (definite abuse of power on Bills part if you ask me) and it caused a great deal of embarassment to the nation. It is important in how it relates to Hillary because, let's face it, there is no guarantee it won't happen again while Hillary is in office (Monica wasn't his first you know) and with all the problems our country has to face right now do we really need our president to have additional distractions like this? If Hillary had divorced Bill and and the both of them weren't looking to come back to the white house with all of their baggage, it wouldn't be an issue, but of course we all know Hillary wouldn't be running for president right now if she had left Bill which is why, I suspect she never left him years ago.
People in glass houses shouldn't throw stones.
If the Clinton camp can blast Senator Obama for sticking with Rev. Wright over his controversial statements, they should be prepared to deal wih questions about whom Senator Clinton has chosen to "stick with" through controversy.
It's nothing but gossip. She politely but firmly refused to answer, and maintained her dignity and equilibrium. Good for her.
Hillary and Bill have made one thing crystal clear: Nothing is off limits for any candidate, or any candidate supporter. Now it has come back to bite them in the you-know-what when someone asks Chelsea about Monica Lewinsky.
Besides, Bill said to chill, so maybe he should give Chelsea the same advice.
Jack; Reacting to Chelsea's communications is really a no brainer. If I would have been near the person asking the question I would have punched him in the mouth. It is like being at a Green Bay Packer game and some drunk uses the "f" word loudly in front of some young girls. She is a mature young lady exposed to many experiences so therefore lets treat her with some class via what she represents as a lady with equal rights to dignity.
4000 US soldiers dead in Iraq. The economy is a train wreck. I just lost my job. There are 28 million on food stamps. Am I supposed to feel sorry for Chelsea because they are asking her about Monica? Get real.
Jack no one in my family is running for the office of President of the United states. Hilary Clinton is and her husband Bill Clinton was the president of the United States. Everything is fair game when you run for public office.
Chelsea Clinton won't give interviews to reporters either but she will give lip service every time the media is present when it is convenient for herself or her family.
Perhaps the media needs to quit reporting anything Chelsea has to say. Without the media she would be just another kid. In fact, without the media her whole family would be much ado about nothing.
Jack,
I think it depends on why the question is being asked. It seems to me that the questioners want to know if the Lewinsky scandal is something that has tarnished the Clinton name, or might be used against Hillary if she were the nominee. Considering all of the Clinton supporters who point to the Wright controversy as hurting Obama, I think the Lewinksy question is fair game. They aren't asking for details, just the larger political impact. Political, not personal.
Given that Hillary Clinton went through an extremely embarassing family situation in front of a worldwide audience, how she handled it and what she took from it reflects on her character. Even though I am an Obama supporter, I personally think it reflects highly on Hillary, and I hoped Chelsea would be smart enough on the stump to turn that into a positive talking point for her mother. For Chelsea, who is now 28 years old, to believe that the family business of the former First Family is something that she would not have to address on the campaigh trail shows that she did not inherit either her mother's or her father's political skills.
Melissa
Washington, DC
yes. she is right. what her father did has nothing to do with this election and i think it is in bad taste to ask questions of his daughter about a hurtful time in their family's life. how about this election discuss the pertinent issues for a change? the original idiot that posed the question should be ashamed of himself for being so perverted. maybe he should grow up and find out what the important issues are, such as iraq, economy and health care instead of worrying about the private life of someone who's not running. i realize that may be over the head of some college internet porn surfer but the adults want to concentrate on the future of america.
Of course she is. None of that would have gotten out if it wasn’t for a couple of publicity seeking opportunists. What any public official does in his or her private life should stay that way as long as it doesn’t affect job performance. I rather have a pervert for president than a Christian that had to be born twice – look what that got us.
Her father made it our business when he 'did his business' in the oval office. I am truly sorry for the pain she and her mother must have endured but at the same time the damage he did to this country also needs to be reconciled.
Because of the 'distraction' there were a lot of missed opportunities for the improvement of the lives of the people of this country as well as missed opportunities in our foreign relations (Rawanda). That is indeed our business.
I fault him directly for giving this 'joker' in the White House the means to get there. Just think: No Monica=No Brownie=No Cronyism=No Iraq War=...
When that phone rings at 3 am I want to know that whoever answers it isn't expecting a call from the Secret Service with information on the latest 'shenanigans'!!
NO, she is wrong and naive to think it isn't the public's business. Her response to that question and I didn't see or hear it asked should have been that issue is between my mother and father and has nothing to do with me, so that question you would have to ask them about.. Her lack of skill in answering questions is apparent now and her getting upset at the question being asked of her shows her ignorance as well. Chelsea, this was a national scandal that involved the personal lives of the President and First Lady of the White House i.e your parents, let the media try to ask you but keep referring them to your parents for comment. It is there responsibility to shut that down not you. Be an adult, act like one and tell the media or any person that questions you that you cannot comment on what happened between my mom and dad as a married couple because as their daughter you werent privy to the sordid details so please ask them.
Maybe Chelesa believes that she is right in her statement, but political servant's lives, both publically and privately are constantly under the political radar and microscope. I think that question would be better addressed by Hillary herself. Chelesa's response should have been more postive in support of her mother, rather than dismissing by her unconventional statement. Hillary should have thought real serious about letting her campaign knowing the past skeletons that residue in Bill's and her closet. Politics is a game that you get burned if you stand to close to the heat.
As it nearly got a president thrown out of office, I would have to say that it would be our business.
As to the appropriateness of asking Chelsea about the matter, it should be noted that she is campaigning for her mother. If Obama is questioned about his minister and subsequent beliefs to determine the type of character he has for the presidency, then the same rule applies regarding Hillary and Chelsea.
Chelsea had no problem corroborating Hillary's first version of Kosovo, either, so even her credibility is in question.
Harry
Not a chance, Jack!
Give me a break. If Obama's former pastor is on the table then Sen. Clinton's husband should certainly not be exempt from public scrutiny. We can only expect this kind of extreme double-talk from the Clinton campaign, and it's certainly nice to see Chelsea is already well under way in her training.
Brian
Moscow, Idaho
jack i would say as far as she is concerned yes.......the media has played this up so much that you are going to have every nut asking her that question now.......if you noticed he jumped up and left after asking........he looked more like a fool than anything......after all her mother is the one that is running for president......personally i could care less about that issue.....what are we going to bring jfk up from the grave and drag him through the mud......
Since our constitution says we are all equal, yes she should have equal rights and not answer a question she doesn't want to answer.
It might take her years to actually totally deal with those very painful years in her life. Stop trying to turn a knife in her and make her pain greater.
Ruth from Minnesota
Put it this way, would you ask your neighbor kids about there parents affair? Or would you like someone to ask your kids those type of questions if you were caught having an affair? People should use a little common sense.
Absolutely not. Miss Clinton should follow her fathers statement about getting in there and playing the game. If she doesn't want to answer the tough questions then she should go back to her job whatever that is and leave the campaign to the ones that can take a hit. She should also answer the questions of the press. As far as voting for her mother, she doesn't have to worry about that from this Texan.
Jack,
NO it's not off limits! If she wants to campaign for her mother then she needs to respond to the questions the constituents ask her. If she can’t stand the heat then get out of the kitchen. My god she's 27 years old, she is not a baby and she should quit acting like one. My suggestion is; if she can't handle these questions then get off the campaign trail. Now that people know how she will respond they will ask this question even more. Her responses have opened her up for a whole new line of questioning. She should prepare herself; I predict these questions will not go away.
Cheryl
Mexico, NY
Well, if talking about Lewinsky scandal is not public's business, then running for preseident is not her mother's business. She needs to understand that if her mom becomes president, that is because of public's votes not just family's votes. Public has every right ask the leader whom they elected or going to elect about their personal business.There are smart students out there who know the past and dig into the past.
First, she will not answer any reporters' questions. Now, she will answer only those questions that she wants to answer. Why are the news networks even mentioning her? This would not happen with any other surrogate!!!
Jack I think these questions are asked by people who only want to get their picture or voice on the news. These people are called A-holes. They're not trying to gather information so they can make an intelligent vote. They're doing it to embarrass Chelsea and gained fame. The news media seems to be giving it to them. And as long as they do more A-holes will get on the news. The news media needs to start taking lessons from sporting events when one of these A-holes runs on the field, they turn the camera way and wait until they throw a net over the A-hole and carry him off to jail.
No. Although I don't think it was fair to pose the question to Chelsea. However, the far right bloggers and talk shows will have a field day with Bill Clinton's relationships with Monica Lewinski, Paula Jones, Gennifer Flowers, Kathleen Willey, Sally Purdue and others. They will almost certainly bring up Bill's philandering should Hillary become the nominee. A guy with Bill Clinton's history of extra marital affairs usually doesn't change his stripes, so there are likely to be new scandals involving his relationships in a Hillary Clinton administration. Can you imagine four years of that kind of garbage? I voted for this guy twice, but had more than enough of his shenanigans the first time around.
You know, if the president hadn't been impeached because of it, if it hadn't been the latest in a string of scandals that lasted his entire presidency, and if it hadn't been a distraction that might have cost us a chance to get Osama bin Laden before 9/11...well, then she might have a point.
Sorry, it's sad you have to deal with it, but it's the elephant in the middle of the room. If perjury, lying and misuse of presidential powers are simply personal, family business, then I don't get the presidency, or the way you understand the presidency, Chelsea. Wake up. I tell you what I tell your Mom (and Dad) "It's not about YOU. It's about US."
It is a public known thing but does not mean she has to talk about it. This is not a campaign issue, if it were it would be a plus for Hillary. It showed that she is able to handle life's hardships and stay professional and on course in her career. That is a true indicator of a good candidate for president.
However what kind of person would ask the child of a parent about their parent's affair? It is rude and shows lack of character. If you have to ask it, ask it in private.
How is Chelsea supposed to answer a question like that?
Would you like to discuss sexual things about your parents to millions of people?
Chelsea did alright.
She is a polished 27 year old woman, a consultant of a prestigious firm, who is now acting as a campaign operative stumping for her mother. As such these questions are to be expected. If she doesn't want to have these questions asked of her, she could take a much less visible role, as have other adult children of other candidates.
If she is a surrogate, which she is, then all questions need to be answered. She isn't the only one getting strange questions.
Although all surrogates and candidates get personal questions-she's the only one the press are reporting on.
Why is that Jack?
maybe she doesn't have to answer but the public has the right to ask. she chose to not allow reporters to ask her questions , she wanted to go to the people. why ?did she think they were too stupid to remember the white house of shame during her fathers administration one scandal after another , which i might add her mother was very much a part of. people need to ask more questions the last thing this country needs is more scandals from the Clintons.
While I am no big fan of the Clintons, Ms. Chelsea Clinton was right on to take a stand on this issue. While one could argue that President Bill Clinton did have a responsibility to discuss this issue, given the context of the situation (sexual relations with a junior employee, sexual relations while on the job/in the president's office), there is absolutely no justification to tie anybody else, especially his daughter into this issue. Personal responsibility does not extend beyond the person...
Obviously some individuals are using this tactic to get under Chelsea Clinton's skin; which is a sad commentary on our times when everything personal seems to be fair game for public consumption. It is no wonder that most talented and skilled individuals choose to avoid politics.
Cheers.
Brian, Windsor, Ontario.
Absolutely, without any doubt, absolutely unfair to bring up Monica Lewinsky, to ANY of the Clinton's ESPECIALLY their daughter.
It is NOT a political issue, never was; it was cringingly stupid that Clinton came up for Impeachment over it and is grossly rude to bring it up. Ashamed that
it even came up by that callow college student much less continues to be discussed.
COME ON PEOPLE GROW UP.
Absolutely not! When you accept the responsibility of the Presidency, you accept the right of the American people to hold you accountable. Miss Clinton's response that this isn't the business of the American people is a joke. His actions became our business the day the American people elected him to be the President of the United States.
I think that the questioning of relevant aspects of Bill Clinton's scandals is fair game for ANY surrogate of Hillary Clinton's campaign. Chelsea shouldn't get a pass and should be prepared to respond in a more mature or positive way than she has to date. Her mother continues to try and claim a role in the positive things that occurred during her husband's administration while disavowing negatives (even those she actually did gain 'experience' through). Chelsea is my age (~30) and as an active, public figure there shouldn't be any topics related to her mother that are off limits. In my mind, it just contributes to a pattern of misinformation and avoidance that has permeated the Clinton camp.
I think her tone is a little arrogant and condescending. Her parents have no problem attacking their opponents' personal lives and statements and, because she is actively campaigning as an adult, she should be able to handle these kinds of personal questions. We are trying to establish the character and strengths (or weaknesses) of the people who want to be President of the United States – it's important that we have clear insights as to how they think and feel about all issues, including those personal issues that have become part of the public arena. And for those news commentators who keep referring to Chelsea as a "child" – get a grip, she is a hedge fund manager, and from what I recall, they don't hire kids to run those funds. She is as savvy and wily as both her parents. Cutting her this slack is no better than the Clintons' accusations that the media were going too easy on Obama.
Jack- this is politics. There is no ethical rule here.
When you go there to beg for vote- dare to face the consequences also.
No. If you are going to campaign, you should expect that all the family skeletons will come rattling out of the closet!
As I said to Lou dobbs in an email today the idea that there is media bias for Obama and against Clinton pales by comparison to the deal that was made between the Clinton camp and all of the press that Chelsea was off limits particularly when she is acting as a surrogate campaigning for her mother and criticizing other candidates and the current president with a completely free pass. Of course the Lewinsky scandal should be fair game just like Bill lying under oath about previous affairs.
I understand where Cheslsea is coming from, but she is absolutely wrong. The affair started and continued in the public office. It affected the every level in the government from presidential office to congressional offices. There was a congressional investigation, congressional hearing. His father (Bill Clinton) was impeached. The entire scandal had consumed the news coverage, government resources, and average person attention.
The scandal affected all of us. People are not asking the private information between Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky. We are questioning about the entire scandal, including the impeachment. Is the impeachment none of our business too? This is not a private issue, and it is not "None of your business".
She is absolutely wrong! She would have done better to answer the question and tell everyone how her mother dealt with the Lewinsky scandal. At least that way her mother would not seem like such a MONSTER! Hillary Clinton can not lead this country. She doesn't even know what is going on in her own house. No more Clintons. Wake Up People!
Didn't Bill Clinton–Chelsea's oun father–say that those who put on the pads should expect to be clipped? It seems to me that the Clintons have a double standard here. While I understand their desire to protect their daughter, she is a voice for her mother's campaign. I think that the Lewinsky matter is relevant to the discussion, and her refusal to answer these questions (and talk to the media) goes against the "spirit" of the campaign that her father spoke about a few days ago. We can't have it both ways, Clintons. She can either stand the heat or get out of the kitchen!
These questions are being asked to keep the "blue dress" in the forefront of reported news to make sure the public is kept aware of Bill Cointons indiscretion and to embarass the Clintons, nothing more.
These are obviously plants with planted questions and quite frankly are none of the questioners business.
Chelsea is in a country that allows for free will and free speech and I admire her responses and she should continue to say just what she is saying.
If gossip mongers want smut, they should get the Inquirer.
THe Obama supporters should keep attending Obama rally's rather than propage such smut.
There is no reason to ask this question. It is very tranparent on the part of these guys. Trying to justify it as a valid question is ridiculous.
And there are still standards of common decency for everyone-the news- the campaign notwithstanding!
The Lewinsky scandal is of course off limits. It was a deeply personal tragedy that was overly exposed by the media at the time, and everyone knew about it. It's pointless to talk about the scandal, it's a decade old, and who would want to hear "old news".
It is none of their business. Senator Clinton didn't have the affair and has nothing to explain. President Clinton is not running for office. Chelsea is not campaigning for him.
Huntsville, AL
Chelsea can either campaign for her mother and take all that comes with it, or she can be the protected former first daughter. She can't do both simultaneously. Given how agressive her mother has been in this campaign, she has no place saying something crosses the line. If she's out there, she has to expect that questions are going to be asked or things will be said that she won't like.
Given that the Lewinski ordeal was VERY public, yeah, it is the public's business. Hillary Clinton seems to want to talk about her time as the first lady, as long as it's positive. Sorry, it's fair game.
Kerri
South Elgin, IL
I totally agree with Chelsea she is right the Lewinsky scandal is a personal matter and should not be brought up. It has nothing to do with this campaign. It was a wasted question. Hillary is the main focus and Chelsea has better questions to answer
Hes an public official. He lied under oath. He committed adultery. He's campaigning for his wife. Why would it NOT be anyones business? Their whole entire lives, including their spouses, families, and supporters are under scrutiny. If she cant handle the question then she needs not campaign for her mother.
We live in an age that anyone who is under the public eye has no business, from movie stars, recording artists, and yes politicians.
Once again, the rules dont apply to the Clinton Clan, naturally.
Since The Clintons are campaining for Hillary as a family, I think that it opens up the forum to questions about the family. Chelsea needs to realize that she can't have it both ways, campaining for her mom, but on her own terms. If she is going to be out on the stump for Hillary, then she needs to get the tough questions asked of her.
Like her daddy said, politics is rough business and if you are part of it, be ready for the fight.
Chesea Clinton has gotten off the hook way too many times. The Clinton machine has set her up as 'off limits' with the media but Chelsea 'herself' chose to campaign for her mother months & months ago. Nothing should be off limits 'especially' regarding her parents' ethics/behavior. How sick are we all of the Clintons!!! It will so good for the country to finally say 'goodbye' to them all!!! Obama in 08!
If she's going to be out stumping for Mommy, then someone needs to tell Chelsea that "It's none of your business" is not the correct answer for ANY question. She's a big girl now, so she needs to understand she doesn't get to pick and choose what questions she gets. So either get her perpared to answer the tough ones, or stop wasting everyones time and get her the hell out of there.
of course it's a personal and private family matter. but since it happened in the oval office and we all found out about it then guess, what? we get to ask questions. of course chelsea has the choice to refuse to answer. but we get the choice to continue to ask.
Yes, it is the business of the public if the public sees fit to ask the question. If Hillary doesn't find those votes from the "Lewinski" questions camp important to her Presidential bid, then Chelsea should continue to answer with "none of your business". However, all this could have been avoided had Chelsea responded in Butler with, "that shows my Mom has weathered many storms, survived beautifully, and is ready for the Presidency." Chelsea should have diffused the situation instead of getting defensive and belittling the students.
Lisa
Chicago, IL
Chelsea should expect question like this while on the campaign trail! She chose campaign for her mother and she answer the question!
Jack,
If Hillary Clinton was not running for President and someone asked Chelsea a question about the scandal then yes it would be off limits. But this is probably the most important election of all time and questions need to be answered.
If Barack Obama is going to be assaulted with a million questions about what his idiot pastor said then the Clinton camp should be pounded with questions about former President Clinton and the honesty, decency and the entire moral fiber of the entire Clinton family.
Ms. Clinton should answere all questions put to her. Like the man said "if you can't stand the heat' Get out of the kitchen
Chelsea Clinton already lived thru the Lewinsky scandal as we all did. However, it was her life, not ours. She is, as an adult, allowed to have a private life and not to have to re-live the nightmare again. It must have been scary and heart-breaking for her the first time.
Clearly, there are enough relevant issues to ask her about without confronting her about a terrible time a long time ago.
I think the more Chelsea runs away from this question the more people are going to become even more curious. If she addressed it and didn't give such a crass answer maybe people's curosity would eventually dissolve, but instead she says "Its no one's business".
People want to know how Hillary reacts in times of tradegy, and that situation with Monica Lewinsky was a HUGE TRADEGY. I know it might be hurtful for Chelsea to talk about it, but its obvious NOW the question isn't going to go away. She might want address the question and tell the country – "I'm only going to talk about this one time and that's it", and just do it. Then people might stop asking.
Nia Beckwith
Chicago, IL
As I believe a famous close relation of yours said recently, Miss Chelsea, if you can't take the heat, stay out of the kitchen. Follow that advice!
The student should spend more time studying and less time posturing. It's a little late for the student to join the Moral Majority.
The Monica Lewinsky scandal did not destroy Bill Clinton's presidency despite Ken Starr's waste of $80 million of taxpayers' money and the hypocrisy of several House Republican leaders. What possible reason is there to link that scandal to Hillary Clinton's 2008 candidacy?
Hopefully the student has enjoyed his 15 minutes and the campaign(s) can get back to the real issues.
She is right. What is passed is passed. It should not affect Hillary now as she run for office. Bill, that is a different story. He'll be acountable for the rest of his life.
Jack,
If she wants to campaign for her mother, she should be expected to answer these types of questions in some way other than dismissing it. Even if this is "none of people's bussiness", it will be discussed just as Obama's paster's words are being discussed. These types of things speek to the character of the candidate and isn't that usually the biggest deciding factor for most people?
Yes....and anyone who repeatedly asks a young woman about her fathers sex life needs to get help! What my parents may, or may not have done sexually is nobody's business!
Dear Jack,
I agree with Ms. Clinton, an affair her father was involved in over eight years ago is not pertinent to her mother's current campaign. Her family seems to have moved on from this tragedy, and America should have moved on by now too. Especially with important things like the war in Iraq and the troubled economy to talk about. If the public really wants to hear about sex and scandal then they should go read a tabloid or something. Or just go talk to Eliot Spitzer.
It was obvious to me that Chelsae Clinton was completely unprepared to have to face reality on a college campus. So she became arrogant instead of giving an intelligent response about the Lewinsky scandal.
But didn't she voice what many of us fear about politicians?
That they exploit us with their rhetoric to get elected and once in office believe that the process of governing IS NONE OF OUR BUSINESS!!! ?
Now we know why Chelsea doesn't talk to the press; she would tell the truth.
No of course she's not right, since the scandal involved public officials, consumed public money, and led to only the second impeachment of a US president, father or not. I cut her some slack since she's new to public exposure and apparently wasn't counseled by the Clinton campaign (or the Clinton parents) on anticipating the question and crafting the right response. And if she puts herself out there, she's fair game.
That comment is very old news. People that ask it should get a life. It has nothing to do with Hillary. Bill Clinton has done a lot of things , both good and bad. He still comes up "Golden".
Jack
Lets make this very simple, when your running for president of the United States your life and everything surrounding it is an open book. If you feel any different and you have something to hide than you should be home working in the garden in Westchester County.
No it is not she should know and need to know that her father was holding the highest office and ignored and ruined the integrity of this office. If now she's hustling for her mother every time she gets on center stage promoting her mother, she better watch out. Don't hide under oh its personnel crap be straight and answer the question.
The girl is more Hillary than Bill. If it's none of our business, why did the father "misspeak" about the whole affair on national television.
She really should not be given any audience if she is not ready to be sincere and straightforward.
Jack – It is a bit tacky to ask the daughter about dad's tryst but as long as she's out there stumping for her mom she's fair game. The "none of your business" answer doesn't cut it either. It's not as if he owned the corner grocery store, he was the nation's President and his behavior should be under close scrutiny from the nation's citizens. She needs "politicing lessons" before she makes her presidential bid, but then again that would be after Jeb Bush does his obligated eight years. God help us!
I am beginning to look at Chelsea in the same manner as I see Hillary. They both want to claim all of the success and positive from Bill's presidcency but try to distance themselves or ignore the numerous negatives from the same time period. While Chelsea may not be the best person to answer this question, it is a legitimate question that needs to be answered. If the press was doing its job and asking Hillary and Bill, then maybe Chelsea would not have to respond.
Bottom line, his actions took place while he was President, while Hillary was First Lady, in the White House, and his attempts to cover up the actions aided in Gore not winning the presidency. I thought i would never say this but I feel sorriest for Monica as everyone else has been able to move on with their lives to different degrees. Bill is making millions from unknown sources, Hillary was elected to the Senate somehow, and Chelsea has a fat Wall Street job.
Off limits??? That's like those idiots that run on the field at Sporting events and get their 'heads handed to them.' You go around the country stumping for people that have dirt...you, and more importantly they, have got to know you might get 'occassionally clipped' to quote President Clinton. Chelsea's not a baby anymore. Welcome to the real world, Post Whitehouse!
Of course its our business! Hillary Clinton is using her experiences as First Lady as a claim for experience for the presidency. Lewinsky-gate is a defining moment of the Clinton presidency! Because of this claim, I think we deserve to know how if affected her, as it will tell us how she will handle other difficult situations.
'Obama 2008
Of course it's the public business: it happened in the Oval Office, during his tenure as a paid public servant, in some cases while simultaneously conducting public business on the telephone. Can you imagine any other federal employee being able to divert public inquiry into sexual acts committed while on duty and on federal premises? If our family members were running for the highest public office in the land, they'd be questioned about such personal behavior as well.
Further, if Chelsea actually believes that Americans should not vote for her mother because of her father, she needs to tell Bill to quit campaigning for Hillary.
Someone also needs to ask Chelsea whether (or why) she supported Hillary's false account of events in Bosnia and disdainful dismissal of a "comedian's" truthful recollection.
When Chelsea is asked about the Lewinsky matter she is perfectly within her rights to say, " it"s none of your business".
Jack, Chelsea didn't say, " the Lewinsky scandal isn't the publics business." However she did tell a questioner it wasn't their business...if that makes you feel better.
Jerry Wilson
Broken Arrow, OK
She's right in the sense that a person's sex life or lack thereof, isn't all that relative to their job performance.
I do think that Senator Clinton handled it well and that's a plus for her. I am a Senator Obama supporter, but Senator Clinton does have plenty of actual experiences that show her fiber and character.
Look, when a person (who ever it is) speaks at rallies for any political candidate, she or he must provide answers to questions about their candidate. I don't care even she is a daughter of Hillary or not. Who does she think she is. What's wrong with her. Any or most of questions directed to her is not off limits. If she can't handle those types of comments, then she should not speak at any rally.
Bill Clinton made it our business when he decided to perform these acts in the White House. Chelsea needs to answer the questions if she wants to be on the campaign trail. I would tell her it is my damn business!
The wonderful and magnificant USA you and I grew up in, Jack, is going down the tubes for more reasons than I can list here–starting with the total corruption in Washington by all parties–and all we can do is discuss Chelsey Clinton. I'm SCARED, Jack!!!!!!
So where is Hilliary's voice now. Why isn't she protecting and defending her daughter. This does not concern Chelsea. Where is Hilliarys experience, toughness, you can know me down, but not out attitude. The Clintons have thrown Chelsea under the bus, and Bill/Hilliary is the bus driver. I do not believe you want us to be so naive to think the Clintons did not think this would be a question that would eventually come up. If Hilliary had any intergrity and character, leadership ability than defend your child. Tell the public to ask me the question, not my daughter. That would look more Presidential, not the least maternal.
Chelsea is wrong. Hillary Clinton is trying to portray herself as the more experienced Dem candidate, and mentions that a lot of her experience was gained while she & Bill were in the Whitehouse. Because part of her "experience base" was how she dealt with the Monica Lewinsky episode, it's fair game to bring it up.
Chelsea's own mother is constantly throwing the kitchen sink at Barack Obama. Maybe it's time someone started throwing a few toilets at the Clintons.
Of course she's right !
Her father dragged this entire country through the mud with his lies–never coming clean until he was legally forced to do so. This sort of selfish, blind ambition is very much the country's business and we have a right to know where Hillary stands on the issue as well as some sort of a commitment that these sort of soap opera's won't be repeated if her mother is elected.
You can't shill for your mother and then refuse to answer questions as if you are still under the age of 18. Having it both ways seems to run in the Clinton family, by the looks of things.
All's fair I've been told. Poliitcs is such a dirty business that obviously anything goes.
They are all morons who won't win the nomination so the real question is: "Does it really matter?"
Jack,
There are 2 things concerning this event:
1) Is the Lewinsky Scandal a private matter:
Absolutely not. The Clinton campaign has run this election as a job interview to become the President. That makes us the employers, Bill Clinton a former employee, and Hillary Clinton on the chopping block. As an employer, I have every right to know about sexual encounters occurring in MY place of business, the White House. Inappropriate behavior is every bit the right of an employer to know about.
2) Was the question asked a personal question:
Absolutely not. The Butler student was not asking about details of the scandal at all. He wasn't asking about how Hillary felt about it. What he asked was how the scandal has affected her credibility. How, in the way that she has handled the scandal, can we see that she is a strong person?
Well apparently Chelsea thinks that is none of our business and if she believes that then I think she should avoid the politics business.
Alex
Waterbury, CT
Jack,
I think for Chelsea Clinton to ignore this question and this issue entirely would be to ignore an important part of contemporary American history that did have an impact on this country during Clinton's administration and would be to ignore a global public relations nightmare, certainly, that this nation experienced because of that incident.
Hillary is campaigning on a platform of experience, experience which she claims to have derived from her time as First Lady in addition to serving as a senator. Certainly she experienced a lot, both good but mostly bad, through the Lewinsky scandal and for a campaign surrogate (Chelsea) to not address it would mean to dismiss Clinton's fundamental premise of talking of her experience. Chelsea, and the Clinton campaign, need to buck up and realize that just because the Lewinsky issue is not talked about much, it doesn't mean that the incident just disappeared or that Americans forgot about it.
Randall
Cambridge, MA
Bill Clinton was her father. Her mother was married to him at the time. Her mother is now running for running for president, and has touted Bill Clinton's experience again and agina as her own or at the very least as something she was a part of or had a hand in.
If her mother would realize the situation, understand she can't win, and just quit the race, then poor Chelsea wouldn't have to answer any more questions. But its typical Clinton to use and abuse everything and anything they can, including colleagues, relatives, and even family, in their greed for power.
The question wasn't off limits and neither was the answer. Though, someone needs to ask why an impeached president is allowed back in the White House in a capacity where he could possibly shape policies? Shouldn't this be illegal?
The questions are from either reporters or Obama' supporters, she has a right to deny them their stupidity and utter tasteless comments.
This is all to make the Clintons look bad, it is after all the OBAMA STRATEGY at work here.
Jack, I don't think Chelsea should answer for her dad's scandal... ask him but he will probably just lie like he did then...so why ask the question.
Let it go! This is being perpetuated by the administration to deflect attention away from the fact that this country has sunk to the worst level in it's history.
Chelsea is part of the Clinton campaign, so I am a bit surprised to her reaction about being asked about her Father's past. I would think that she would have some canned answer just waiting.
sure shes right,after all it was all public knowledge and posted on the internet for all to read from start to finish, so why should it be relived this many years afterwards?
Whether you agreed with the impeachment of Bill Clinton or not, the truth is that the factual foundation supporting the charge rested in his affair. You can't have an affair unless you have a commitment to someone, and it that case it was Hillary Clinton. As a result, questions about his infidelity are fair game as it was a matter that affected the American public and government via an impeachment process.
Further, I believe Hillary Clinton left herself and campaign vulnerable to such scrutiny by using her role as the wife of a president to support her claim of experience. It's disingenuous for her to use elements of her relationship to support what she wants and then ignore other elements that her campaign finds harmful. If Chelsea is going to campaign for her mother, than she should face the fire of fair questioning like any other campaign supporter.
Methinks tis unfair to question the princess of the Kings many dalliances. Tis is not some oafish union like the United States of America, tis Hillaryland and She is the law of the land, long may She reign.
Unfortunately Chelsea is now a grown-up and if she wants to participate in the process of 'dirty' politics promoted by her parents, she is going to have to swallow a few of these questions like a big girl! They didn't seem to care about Monica at the time doing the same.
St. John's, Newfoundland
If there was a public hearing and impeachment due to the Monica Lewinsky issue, then it is our business. If Hillary is going to take credit of everything good during her stay in the White House, then she and her family better be ready to answer questions about the bad things too.
P/S: Where is your tax papers Hillary??? Obama's is online already for all to read.
Tony - NY
If the question really is too personal for her I feel that she was right in not answering, but wrong in the way that she answered. She could have said "I don't feel comfortable talking about it." Just so she wouldn't seem like a snob.
As long as Chelsea Clinton is out on the campaign trail for her mother, any question about Bill's escapades in the WH is fair. You cannot have everything both ways as the Clintons would like. She put up with his perversion while he was president and it is only fair that Chelsea sees fit to answer those queries. This is typical Clinton bs and I hope the media puts a stop to it.
Guess they're not planting any more questions these days, huh?
It is our business because it happened when Bill was president, in the white house which is maintained with tax payers money.
Today, I think she is within her rights to take this stance... This is all very old news... What could she possibly add to this stupid presidential piece of history..?
Chelsea is stumping for her mother's campaign, not out to rehash old news that gives jerks their 2 minute claim to fame...
Why is no one asking the student who asked this question about his political views, and Hilary's qualifications for office.... Isn't this why he was there... Or was it to show his REAL talents..?
She is campaigning for her mother who is running for President. In that capacity she should answer the questions directed to her, or not campaign. You cannot ask for the press and public to leave your kids alone and at the same time put your kids in the press and publics eye.
Just another in a long and tiring list of Clinton double standards.
I think the Lewinsky scandal in this election is about as relevant, as asking papa smurf how he would vote if he had a chance!
When you enter public life and willingly are involved in the primary process to help decide the President of the United States, nothing is off limits. While I certainly feel for for Chelsea having to deal with an uncomfortable subject, this is part of her parents political life. They created teh Lewinsky mess, a question about character for all parties involved. It is interesting to skirt and avoid questions the Clintons view as 'off-limits' while at the same time taking round-house racial swipes at Obama. I believe if Chelsea wishes to willingly campaign for a Presidential candidate, and it appears obvious that her parents are grooming her for public office, she better get used to dealing with tough questions. She will have a lifetime of them in this profession.
This is a substantial piece of the Clinton presidency. Much of what is written in history books was personal business to some, but of substantial interest to a much broader audience. As for Chelsea's refusal to answer difficult questions, I think this demonstrates a lack of competence and/or confidence. If she wants to be a major surrogate and part of the campaign arsenal, she should go about it like an adult.