Wow! Does this place Garry Trudeau in the Clinton "frenemy database"?

[antigop]

http://doonesbury.slate.com/strip/archive/2014/2/23

[HappyMe]

1. I would imagine so.

[karynnj]

2. Hillarious and priceless

I suspect that the view that the Clintons did reward loyalty and "punish" anything less than loyalty MIGHT have actually been helpful to them over the years. They have never been without power since 1992 - even when they held no current position. In fact, they have always been among the 10 (or so) most influential people.

This reputation likely did make many politicians very wary of ever publicly not supporting them. It is likely true that all politicians - to some degree - do exactly this - though not as openly, blatantly and vigorously as the Clintons. This was also very true of George W Bush.

With reporters, I suspect that it does keep many writing positively - when they might feel less positive - to insure that they would have continued access. Access is extremely important and a President who might deny it - or greatly limit it to opponents - ironically might get more respectful coverage than someone with the reputation of not being vindictive. (This leads to an ethical conundrum for those of us who respect those who are can rise above vindictiveness - it may be that at least the perception that there will be consequences might lead to better press - thus an easier ride to election.)

Adding a note that it is unlikely that ANYONE reaching that level of politics could be 100% pure on this -

[bemildred]

3. Only if it's true. nt

[Jeff In Milwaukee]

4. It's funny and it's true...

But it's not like the Clinton's invented this.

I believe it's often referred to as "politics."

[bemildred]

5. I explained that one step-by-step for my wife. When I did, she thought is was funny too. nt