Like Dick Morris and Brent Budowsky, I find the antics of a certain former president most entertaining. I tend to agree more with Morris that Bill can safely voice what Hillary is feeling, but can never, ever say. He is free to grouse, nurse grudges and cling to the spotlight, whatever he chooses. I also agree with Budowsky, though, that Bill Clinton’s job is to make sure Hillary is never on the ticket.
The word of an impending conversation between Bill Clinton and the New Kid on the Block leaked out last week and soon became a media vigil that lasted five days. Bill Clinton must have loved it — why else does he do things that are petty and beneath his dignity? But Barack Obama knew it had to end. He made the call, told Bill Clinton what he wanted to hear, said what needed to be said. Obama took control of the reins and decided the ride was over, issuing a gracious statement complimenting Bill Clinton so he wouldn’t have to hear about “burying that hatchet” any longer.
In Obama’s statement about their chat, he called Bill Clinton “one of this nation’s great leaders and most brilliant minds” and of course included a deftly worded expression of anticipation of “seeing him on the campaign trail” and also of “receiving his counsel.”
Bill Clinton’s statement said the former president “continues to be impressed by Sen. Obama and the campaign he has run, and looks forward to campaigning for and with him in the months to come.”
For now, it appears the reindeer games may be over.
***
SHOULD OBAMA HAVE THROWN WESLEY CLARK UNDER THE BUS? Ask A.B. returns Monday, July 7 — Please join my weekly video Q & A by sending your questions and comments to askab@digital-stage.thehill.com. Thank you.