Soundbites all round
Reading David Aaronovitch in today's Guardian, he makes several interesting points about Bill Clinton. To my mind, Clinton's the best President that the USA has during my 25 years on the planet. However, this is probably because he wasn't a rubbish actor turned President, a war-mongering moron (or the father of one) and I don't remember anything about Carter to comment on him.

The fact that Clinton is the only Democrat President in the list is also in his favour, given my own left-of-centre views.

Aaronovitch makes the point that all Presidents are now reduced to a soundbite to stand as their legacy, Reagan's is: "Mr Gorbachev, tear down this wall"; Bush snr will be remembered for: "Read my lips, no new taxes" and Bill Clinton for: "I did not have sexual relations with that woman, Miss Lewinsky."

What the present incumbent will be remembered for saying, only time will tell - but his "we've smoked him out, we've got him running... (oh shit we've lost him)" comments on Osama bin Laden will take some topping.

Hopefully, he's only got until November to say something worthwhile. (Hands up all those who want it to be "Congratulations John, welcome to the White House").
- posted by Paul @ 5:08 pm