Activism Works

Clinton Obsession Factor

Ezra Klein documents the Clinton Obsession Factor. Exhibit 1, Andrew Sullivan's play-by-play of the Nevada debate:

"Read [Sullivan's] liveblogging of last night's debate. Edwards never even makes an appearance. Obama, who Andrew is deeply committed to, hardly even qualifies as a walk-on character. Instead, it's Clinton. It's Clinton and Clinton and Clinton and Clinton."

Klein is describing the Clinton 'mystique' that has Chris Matthews, Sullivan and countless others in its grip. We hear a lot about Obama's charisma, but Hillary Clinton has been the most captivating personality in American culture for 16 years. That she still exists at all -- let alone that her star is still rising -- is beyond amazing.

Remember the mega-viral 1984 ad? Now imagine the same ad with George Bush, Lieberman or Giuliani instead of Clinton. Snore! 1984 was fascinating only because Clinton was in it!

Her critics just can't take their eyes off of her. That's why she can't get swiftboated. Gore or Kerry can't answer smears without media cooperation -- which they never get. Clinton doesn't need a fair and balanced media to get her message out.

Case in point: "Vast Right Wing Conspiracy."
Case in point: "A willing suspension of disbelief."

What did Obama or Edwards say about the surge six months ago? You'd have to google to find out. Everyone remembers what Clinton said. What did anyone else say a decade ago? Give me just one quote off the top of your head. (Well, "I did not have sex with that woman." Case closed.)

Case in point: "I don't bake cookies."
Case in point: "I'm not Tammy Wynette, standing by my man" or something like that.

She talks. It goes viral. She plays the 'obsession' card brilliantly.

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posted by 10-K @ 5:21 PM (permalink)