The Clinton Promise and Style

Abstract

This article argues through an analysis of Bill Clinton's political career and rhetoric in Arkansas that Clinton is a president of much promise. Clinton's rhetoric and political skill set the stage for many of his achievements as governor. As governor Clinton tended to work slowly and carefully to build consensus before he acted. Given the many pitfalls of the modern presidency, it is argued that Clinton will have to guard against being perceived as an overcautious and indecisive president lest his rhetoric have a hollow ring. To be successful in the systemically cynical context in which modern American politics takes place, a president must convey to the citizenry a deep commitment to the principles of his program and be perceived as a strong and successful advocate for them. Modern presidents must be perceived as committed to programmatic action-otherwise they will be one term presidents.