The Survivor: Bill Clinton in the White House

by John F. Harris

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Description

Random House, 2005-05-31. Hardcover. Good.

Book summary

This comprehensive history and analysis of the two-term presidency of Bill Clinton is by Washington Post reporter John F. Harris, who covered the White House beat for most of that time. It focuses primarily on politics and policy, including welfare reform, NATO, and peace in the Middle East, but personality and leadership style inevitably come into play, as Harris recounts the ambitious programs (such as the healthcare initiative) as well as the sometimes minor distractions that became major impediments (such as Travelgate) that were to characterize Clinton's presidency. Harris examines how the Clinton presidency was challenged by midyear wins by Republicans led by Newt Gingrich, and he notes the mistrust by their own party of the Clintons, who were Washington outsiders. Nevertheless, Clinton is seen as a strong and active president on foreign and domestic issues, whether it be wars in the Balkans or the incredibly strong economy he left as a legacy. Harris presents acute portraits of the major players, especially advisor Dick Morris, but he also addresses staff loyalty issues and Clinton's tendency to be distracted and to isolate himself. Harris assesses Clinton's attention to the threat of terrorism, and puts the Lewinsky affair into context. What comes across is a very ambitious and eventful presidency, one whose promise exceeded its grasp. And while this is a serious account, it is highly accessible, and provides a new reading of Clinton in his times. A New York Times Notable Book of the Year for 2005.