Who's The Boss?

Bill Clinton has been told in no uncertain terms that - as far as his wife's political future is concerned - Hillary is calling the shots.

The former President agreed to give his wife a veto to avoid his habit of making controversial headlines that could hurt her chances of returning to the White House, multiple sources told the Daily News.

"He knows it's Hillary's time now," said an adviser close to both Clintons who expects to play a key role in her likely 2008 presidential campaign.

Hillary Clinton's handlers are keeping a close rein on the former President's schedule to try to prevent another embarrassing screwup like their competing roles in the Dubai ports deal.

Now as far as issues like his lobbying for the Dubai ports deal, this is understandable because they need to at least appear as if they're on the same page. But it begs the question - will Bill have any say in how she runs her anticipated 2008 Presidential campaign? Certainly he has a stake in it.

The former President's political instincts are his greatest strength. Hillary doesn't have her husband's personal magnetism and charm. But you would think she would want the benefit of Bill's advice handy as a reality check. Will she embrace it or disregard it? And how much does she really trust him at this point in their relationship? Running for President is challenging enough without having the feeling that you're the smartest person in the room.

I have no doubt that the NY Senator acted very much the "co-President" while she was in the White House. But it must have been difficult for her to ultimately accept only a supporting role for eight long years. It doesn't suit her. This is now her chance to be the boss but if she's not careful she might end up relying solely on her own political instincts (or lack thereof) which would make the next two and a half years more fun for the GOP.

Posted by: Gary at 09:24 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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