The race for the 2008 Presidency is beginning to heat up. Recently, both Illinois Senator Barack Obama and New York Senator Hillary Rodham-Clinton both announced they were establishing exploratory committees which is the first step in declaring their intentions to run. Polls show Sen. Clinton is definitely the front runner with Sen. Obama a close second in their bid for the Democratic nomination.
So, let’s just say Sen. Clinton becomes President Hillary Rodham-Clinton. What does that make Bill Clinton-First Lady? First Sir, or First Gentlemen? (What a joke!) How would one address an envelope? Mr. and Mrs. Presidents Clinton? President and President Clinton? I’m confused. Miss Manners will definitely have to update that section of proper etiquette. Would this mean Bill would have free reign with the White House staff? What a scary thought. Or will he be able to redecorate the White House, as most other First Lady’s are apt to do? Will he go with a bachelor pad motif or just endless rows of desks manned by interns? Perhaps, he will just want to go with a rather large humidor so he is able to keep an unlimited stash of Cuban cigars — you know, so he can smoke but not inhale.
Okay, besides all of the etiquette and decorating issues, what exactly will his duties be? Currently, Mrs. Bush is an advocate for education. I can only imagine the shtick Bill will come up with. Just maybe he will choose wisely and promote child rights and mandate every child must have a village to help in their upbringing. Or maybe something more noble such as pushing for an age limit on White House interns, say no older than 23? Or will he want to rally for women’s rights?
The thought of Bill Clinton wielding all of the presidential power and none of the responsibility does frighten me. It’s not the thought of him being able to control policy, but more the thought of him being able to control.