Bruni only scratched the surface in this opinion piece. Clinton is simply the worst candidate for president in the history of this country. Enough said.
9
Why not compare Hillary to other female world leaders? Angela Merkel, for example.
Do the Germans expect Merkel to be an entertainer or be charismatic? I see no evidence of that. She is a policy wonk. She's dowdy. She gets respect from other world leaders. She has endured criticism but steps up to plate to insist Europe do the right thing.
Europeans would be scandalized to see their femal politicians have to do the equivalent of a Dog and Pony show. I honestly cannot think of a country in the world where someone like Hillary would be expected to act silly on television.
I may not be her greatest admirer, and I wish our country would be more amenable to the type of message Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren embody, but I see her as someone coming out of a generation willing to uphold a more leftist agenda - given half a chance.
Gossipy columns demean a candidate like HRC. And they demean readers of the Times, especially women.
For Goodness sake, let's take a lesson from other countries' female politicians. We embarSs ourselves as a country if we want Hillary to entertain us, rather than consider the worldwide role she has already played and her notable skills of negotiation, her familiarity with world leaders, and her freedom to move to the left, given Bernie's presence in the race.
Do the Germans expect Merkel to be an entertainer or be charismatic? I see no evidence of that. She is a policy wonk. She's dowdy. She gets respect from other world leaders. She has endured criticism but steps up to plate to insist Europe do the right thing.
Europeans would be scandalized to see their femal politicians have to do the equivalent of a Dog and Pony show. I honestly cannot think of a country in the world where someone like Hillary would be expected to act silly on television.
I may not be her greatest admirer, and I wish our country would be more amenable to the type of message Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren embody, but I see her as someone coming out of a generation willing to uphold a more leftist agenda - given half a chance.
Gossipy columns demean a candidate like HRC. And they demean readers of the Times, especially women.
For Goodness sake, let's take a lesson from other countries' female politicians. We embarSs ourselves as a country if we want Hillary to entertain us, rather than consider the worldwide role she has already played and her notable skills of negotiation, her familiarity with world leaders, and her freedom to move to the left, given Bernie's presence in the race.
27
In life one must be careful about wanting something too much.
She wants this position of vast responsibility very much because she really cares very much.
And she cares in the good sense of that word.
She wants this position of vast responsibility very much because she really cares very much.
And she cares in the good sense of that word.
7
Again with the bleeding? Do we mention that when describing what we ask of men? Do we ask Obama to bleed? We sure don't expect Trump to bleed. I mean, it's just weird to bring that up.
Anyway, I wish Hillary would go with her original self. I liked her as smart, straightforward and slightly caustic. Almost used the B word, but that'd be as bad as the other b word.
Anyway, I wish Hillary would go with her original self. I liked her as smart, straightforward and slightly caustic. Almost used the B word, but that'd be as bad as the other b word.
9
YIKES!
Frank Bruni is on target here.
I'm not a Hillary fan but I admit to being stunned by this kind of pandering.
Go, Bernie!
Frank Bruni is on target here.
I'm not a Hillary fan but I admit to being stunned by this kind of pandering.
Go, Bernie!
9
Take the time to read the entire interview, Susan, (and everyone else who is taking Frank at his word here), It's actually quite good and in no way a "pajama party." And the promo that he is so offended by is less than a minute long and designed to appeal to Dunham's target audience (young women in their 20's) so that they will read the interview. Watch that as well. It seems that Frank - whom I usually admire- went out of his way to read a newsletter that is by no means targeted to his demographic in order to write this dismissive column. I'm sure he knew that hardly anyone would actually take the time to watch the promo and read the whole interview. As a 70 year old woman I'm quite offended by this whole "pajama party" metaphor which conjurs up images of giddy young girls. Can you imagine him ever using it to describe an interview of a male candidate in, let's say, Playboy Magazine that was targeted to young men?
20
We met Mrs. Clinton 3 times at the NYS Fair. (And she is MRS. Clinton, MARRIED to Bill CLINTON!. If she had originally presented herself as Hillary Rodham, it'd be different). When Bill was President, they were inaccessible. Later, they were approachable. We're a male couple. Bill had no interest in us. He DOES have eyes for pretty women of all ages!
We talked for maybe 10 minutes. Both times, she came across, certainly as very intelligent and educated, well informed on a breadth of issues.
Mrs. Clinton doesn't do touchy feely, she's not the natural schmoozer Bill is. Some people aren't. She's an introvert. Introverts aren't usually "people-people." We're not usually good at small talk. My husband & I were amused when we scored 19/20 on an introvert/extrovert survey at our seniors luncheon. (20th was slightly vague).
Leopards cant change their spots. Hillary cant become Bill, Schmoozer in Chief, anymore than Bill could become Hillary, Intellectual/Policy Wonk. Mrs. Clinton, like most Presidential candidates has so many coaches, advisors, consultants all shouting advice in her ears, it's a wonder she knows WHO she is let alone her policies, stances, etc. Be yourself, Mrs. Clinton.
PS Apropos of none of above: a plague on Jimmy Carter's house for referring to himself as "Jimmy." I understand southern informality/congeniality. I lived in Florida for 2 1/2 years. But the President deserves formality.
We talked for maybe 10 minutes. Both times, she came across, certainly as very intelligent and educated, well informed on a breadth of issues.
Mrs. Clinton doesn't do touchy feely, she's not the natural schmoozer Bill is. Some people aren't. She's an introvert. Introverts aren't usually "people-people." We're not usually good at small talk. My husband & I were amused when we scored 19/20 on an introvert/extrovert survey at our seniors luncheon. (20th was slightly vague).
Leopards cant change their spots. Hillary cant become Bill, Schmoozer in Chief, anymore than Bill could become Hillary, Intellectual/Policy Wonk. Mrs. Clinton, like most Presidential candidates has so many coaches, advisors, consultants all shouting advice in her ears, it's a wonder she knows WHO she is let alone her policies, stances, etc. Be yourself, Mrs. Clinton.
PS Apropos of none of above: a plague on Jimmy Carter's house for referring to himself as "Jimmy." I understand southern informality/congeniality. I lived in Florida for 2 1/2 years. But the President deserves formality.
8
Bruni's take on HRC is correct. She is not only a weak and wooden campaigner, but, more importantly, an unfortunate--and weak--candidate for the contemporary world staring us in the face. Ironically, even though in his 70s, Sanders is more tuned to contemporary America and the extremely difficult solutions that are required.
12
Enough with the Hillary bashing already! I'll take her any time and any day of the week compared to the reactionary freaks on the other side.
30
Hillary is frozen peas next to Bernie's homemade fresh bread. And there is no chicken in every pot right now.
16
If the media would cease demanding specific behaviors, perhaps this would not be an important opinion article.
Leave her alone and let her be herself - with whatever her shortcomings are, she is best qualified to be President above all the other nothings that believe the nonsense spouted about her. Bernie sounds good but he will not be a viable candidate against Hillary - does not have her experience but can give 'good talk'. Not enough, please.
Leave her alone and let her be herself - with whatever her shortcomings are, she is best qualified to be President above all the other nothings that believe the nonsense spouted about her. Bernie sounds good but he will not be a viable candidate against Hillary - does not have her experience but can give 'good talk'. Not enough, please.
11
I've enjoyed Frank Bruni over the years, but I've had enough. So much attention to Hillary's flaws, in so many articles. Ok, we get it. You think she has issues. Hillary is still the smartest and most accomplished person in the race. Certainly, there are more important things to write about.
Recently, I've stopped watching cable news. Talking heads recycling their opinions. Blather. Now, I put Mr Bruni and Maureen Dowd in the same category. Maybe, I'll give them a try after the next election. Basta.
Recently, I've stopped watching cable news. Talking heads recycling their opinions. Blather. Now, I put Mr Bruni and Maureen Dowd in the same category. Maybe, I'll give them a try after the next election. Basta.
30
I'm a life-long Democrat, but I cringe at HRC's deflections, secretive instincts, 6-figure speaking fees from Goldman-Sachs, and stonewalling half-truths.
The "new Hillary" is forced and contrived. She has largely good ideas but is terrible at being a candidate. If she's the Democratic candidate (I'd greatly prefer Warren or Sanders), I'll very likely vote for her, but without much enthusiasm.
The "new Hillary" is forced and contrived. She has largely good ideas but is terrible at being a candidate. If she's the Democratic candidate (I'd greatly prefer Warren or Sanders), I'll very likely vote for her, but without much enthusiasm.
14
Full disclosure: I'm not a registered Democrat. I vote on issues, looking to be informed by science and intelligent public policy that creates a sustainable future for America and the world.
Is Hillary likable? That depends. Is she more qualified - by a long shot - than any one of the potential GOP candidates? Of course!
Just imagine any one of the GOP clown car candidates in the news every day as POTUS; imagine the federal and SCOTUS judges they might appoint; imagine the increase in social poverty; imagine the increase in war deaths,and so on.
I will vote for Hillary, or any other Democrat over what I see on the other side.
Is Hillary likable? That depends. Is she more qualified - by a long shot - than any one of the potential GOP candidates? Of course!
Just imagine any one of the GOP clown car candidates in the news every day as POTUS; imagine the federal and SCOTUS judges they might appoint; imagine the increase in social poverty; imagine the increase in war deaths,and so on.
I will vote for Hillary, or any other Democrat over what I see on the other side.
24
I love that Hillary is brilliant and brave and experienced and a fighter for women and children and families all over the word. I highly resent that so many of the voters and especially the journalists who cover the presidential campaigns want her to be a comedian and entertainer. I care about her policies, not her skits and jokes.
And as for David Axelrod critiquing her campaign, he has his never. His family was a long time friend of hers and he turned down the chance to run her campaign and took Obama's instead.
Axelrod was a brilliant campaigner but he had a chance to help her and he turned her down. He should at least be polite enough to keep his mouth shut. But then, I do remember that politeness was never one of his virtues.
I love both Hillary and Bernie, but I want Hillary to win -- not because she is a woman, but because we need to recognize that when women are the best qualified they should win.
We are choosing a president, not maketing cheese or automobiles. The consequences are dire if we choose for appearance rather than skill and policy.
And as for David Axelrod critiquing her campaign, he has his never. His family was a long time friend of hers and he turned down the chance to run her campaign and took Obama's instead.
Axelrod was a brilliant campaigner but he had a chance to help her and he turned her down. He should at least be polite enough to keep his mouth shut. But then, I do remember that politeness was never one of his virtues.
I love both Hillary and Bernie, but I want Hillary to win -- not because she is a woman, but because we need to recognize that when women are the best qualified they should win.
We are choosing a president, not maketing cheese or automobiles. The consequences are dire if we choose for appearance rather than skill and policy.
17
Let me add my voice to the many commenters who are amazed that one of our distinguished columnists cannot see the farce for the trees in reporting on Mrs. Clinton's campaign. It's the economy not the emails , it's the tax code not the dress code, it's listening not shouting that matters . My kingdom for discussion of crumbling bridges, lack of money for research and wasted tax dollars on benparenthood hearings ! The Times is the last bastion of long form discourse- please don't cheapen it with columns of this sort. America must understand the difference between plutocracy and representative democracy and there are plenty of folks out there working 24/7 to tie this woman to the stake- there will be no glory in the aftermath of this cruelty and bright writers like Mr. Bruni will regret fiddling while intellectual discourse burns.
27
Leave her alone. This kind of evaluation of her efforts are not worthy of us. No man who happens to be running is scrutnized like this. I like her. I don't believe her server decision was prudent but, to date, the emails might have been sensitive at best, but not classified.
Being older and trying too hard isn't grounds for redicule. Compassion, perhaps.
Being older and trying too hard isn't grounds for redicule. Compassion, perhaps.
13
Oh Hillary! Acres of support but only millimeters deep. We Democrats are racing to nominate a female Mitt. If any one can lead us to defeat, it is her.
9
I sometimes wonder if she even knows who the "real" Hillary is, or if such a person even exists.
8
Lena Dunham has admired Hillary Clinton from way back; she did a paper on her when she was in school. She invited her to take part in a fun gathering, which she was game for. I thought it was a hoot. I'm sick of Frank Bruni's -- and the rest of the NYTimes -- Clinton can-do-nothing-right attitude. It's sexist in this case and just bad journalism in those criminal investigation headlines that weren't accurate and the NYTimes apology that barely was. People talk about how "no one" is enthusiastic about Clinton. I am, and have been since she tried to get health care passed as first lady. She has been a staunch defender of women's rights, too. She is extremely intelligent and well qualified and her record has been very progressive. Position shifts? I welcome in my friends and everyone else people who are open minded enough to change when provided with new information. But of course if it's Hillary, it's calculated, political, etc. etc. I'm sick to death of pieces like this.
25
Frank, leave Hillary alone already....this is getting tiresome!
19
I get the feeling that Frank is vying for a regular slot on Fox News.
14
Please...
What is this about? Why the continuous idolizing of this woman who wants to be President so bad...just because? Haven't we had enough of a president who was the wrong person? She would have been the better candidate 7 years ago. But the past 7 years have really taken a toll on her.
Why no article on her husband running to her defense? Maybe even the NYT realizes that it was a sexist, premature move by Bill that will only make her look even worse. If Uncle Joe is waiting for her ultimate low point to make his mind up, he better get ready. Even the NYT, despite the limitless supporters, is making her whole campaign look like a silly side show.
What is this about? Why the continuous idolizing of this woman who wants to be President so bad...just because? Haven't we had enough of a president who was the wrong person? She would have been the better candidate 7 years ago. But the past 7 years have really taken a toll on her.
Why no article on her husband running to her defense? Maybe even the NYT realizes that it was a sexist, premature move by Bill that will only make her look even worse. If Uncle Joe is waiting for her ultimate low point to make his mind up, he better get ready. Even the NYT, despite the limitless supporters, is making her whole campaign look like a silly side show.
3
I don't want her to be hip. I just want her to be honest.
11
She can't be hip, and it's impossible for her to be honest. Move on. No more Clinton or Bush.
14
With the Clinton's it is ALWAYS somebody else's fault. Whitewater, the NUMEROUS sex scandals involving Bill even before Monica, the Clinton Foundation, Benghazi, and the e-mails, etc. The late Chairman Mao stated if you tell a lie a hundred times it will become the truth. With the Clinton it appears that the American public must live on George Orwell's Animal Farm. Integrity, honesty and other such concepts are not in the Clinton dictionary. That is possibly the reason over 60% of the electorate does not trust Hillary. Please don't say that I left out the Republicans. This article is about Hillary. When its is the Republican's turn in the barrel I will let them have theirs!!
8
No, no, not that kind of spontaneous! This fussbudget column is the beating heart of today's impossible-to-please critics of political candidates. What good comes of picking obsessively at personality traits? I'd like to see, every once in awhile, analysis of all candidates' policies--side by side--without trying to decide who'd be the life of the party.
19
There are a certain amount of people who will not vote for Hillary simply because she is a woman. They will use all sorts of justifications for their dislike of her, but it is plain old sexism at its core. (Sadly, many of those people are women.)
Hillary is smart and capable and hard working. Who cares if you would want to drink a beer with her? That is the reason many people voted for GW Bush and we see how that turned out.
Hillary is smart and capable and hard working. Who cares if you would want to drink a beer with her? That is the reason many people voted for GW Bush and we see how that turned out.
12
There are a certain amount of people who will vote for Hillary simply because she is a woman. They will use all sorts of justification for why they like her, but it is plain old sexism at its core. (Sadly, many of those people are men.)
Hillary is smart and capable and hard working. Who cares if she is representative of a political dynasty? That is the reason many people voted for GW Bush and look how that turned out?
Hillary is smart and capable and hard working. Who cares if she is representative of a political dynasty? That is the reason many people voted for GW Bush and look how that turned out?
3
One is wise to choose who to vote for based on the cadre of people they will bring with them to implement policy.
3
I thought the Kravitz gig was funny and her dead-pan was spoton. Ham-handed, I supposed, but since when have politicians venturing into pop culture not been? We have special standards for Hillary because she is a woman. And because she is not Bill. The media at large have been suckered into the Hillary bashing by a decades long effort to tarnish the Clinton name. And stop quoting your friend the "democratic operative" who was four martinis in to your conversation Frank.
5
If Hillary presents herself as an "Angela Merkel" she would be a winner.
Forget the nice-mummy-fuzzy-warm-socially-acceptable clown bit. Just try and be the cold-hearted Thatcher-Merkel-Iron-Lady, and she will get the votes.
Forget the nice-mummy-fuzzy-warm-socially-acceptable clown bit. Just try and be the cold-hearted Thatcher-Merkel-Iron-Lady, and she will get the votes.
32
Yes, but people trusted Merkel and Thatcher. Neither one ever sent top secret information through their private email account.
4
No, no more cold-heartedness. That is not what this country is supposed to be about. You want brainless, Brains, and cold hearts turn to the Elephants.
The question is what classified information she sent, and so far, there is nothing. If you simply want to be manipulated by the right, go on believing as you do.
2
"...it's in large part a Dunham-Clinton love-in," Maybe calling it a pajama party was too much, but point is that the whole thing is a fake, staged attempt to appeal to a certain demographic which would be okay if it weren't so transparent. She is losing support from both men and women, but specifically from self-avowed liberals. Why? Because people like Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren and "Uncle Joe" Biden seem to speak from the heart instead of speaking from political expediency. People in the comments are jumping on Bruni for not focusing on Hillary's policies, but that is exactly Bruni's criticism, that Hillary is not focusing on her policies, just pandering for an untapped demographic, and I can attest that millennials hate pandering.
5
Mr. Bruni,
Did you really think this was a good column to write? I wonder why you wrote it? Nothing else happening? I"m sick of this kind of writing. Every one has faults, you included. Why write this nonsense.
Did you really think this was a good column to write? I wonder why you wrote it? Nothing else happening? I"m sick of this kind of writing. Every one has faults, you included. Why write this nonsense.
19
Hey Frank, I'd love to see you compare and contrast the positions of the major democratic candidates, or do a piece on Bernie Sanders, who seems to espouse many of the Pope's opinions that you hold so highly.
It would certainly make up for the apparent news blackout of Sen. Sanders by your parent paper.
It would certainly make up for the apparent news blackout of Sen. Sanders by your parent paper.
14
Hillary is just not a likeable person. That is her problem. Obama won because he is a cool guy and very likeable. Romney wasn't Policy issues were secondary. That is the way it is in most elections. Reagan was cool and likeable, Carter was not cool. Clinton was cool, Dole was old. THe policy prescriptions only appeal to those on the right and left. The middle is a lot more about gut feel and cool/likeable always beats someone like Hillary. Think high school popularity. The dorks and geeks ain't winning the popularity contests.
Unless the GOP comes up with someone who is less likeable than her, she will lose.
Most of you people are right in the Dem demographic and of course think it crazy that anyone would vote for a GOP candidate. But most people aren't like you. So....
Unless the GOP comes up with someone who is less likeable than her, she will lose.
Most of you people are right in the Dem demographic and of course think it crazy that anyone would vote for a GOP candidate. But most people aren't like you. So....
4
Another superficial, snarky, tiring piece of Hillary psycho/politico-analysis. Surely, the Times - particularly the 'ever-observing' Mr. Bruni and Ms. Dowd - can find something more substantive to write about than her personality or imagined scandals.
Certain candidates clearly are better at marketing themselves than others. And being in the strategy/marketing world of business, I often find individuals and companies best at promoting themselves and seeming 'authentic' are ultimately the ones with the least substance and value.
Let's scrutinize Hillary - and all candidates - on their accomplishments and proposed policies since this more than anything will shape our future.
Certain candidates clearly are better at marketing themselves than others. And being in the strategy/marketing world of business, I often find individuals and companies best at promoting themselves and seeming 'authentic' are ultimately the ones with the least substance and value.
Let's scrutinize Hillary - and all candidates - on their accomplishments and proposed policies since this more than anything will shape our future.
12
What, are we all still in high school, where popularity is based on looks and personality rather than substance? Haven't we yet figured out that the awkward nerd is more likely going to excel beyond the outgoing cheerleader? And why does the press perpetuate the cult of personality? Its one thing to note that folks are focused on a candidate's personality and another to reinforce the notion that focusing on a candidate's personality is valid criteria for judging his or her substance. Why does Hillary need to be spontaneous and outgoing? What do those qualities have to do with her ability to make reasoned decisions? Do our elected officials all have to be charismatic? Have we had any effective presidents who lacked glibness, or is this a more important consideration for female candidates? Why do we even care? In high school I might have elected the most social, outgoing class members to be homecoming king and queen. As an adult I don't need, or even want, my president to be my best friend. As a citizen, I expect voters to be able to look past personality and the press to focus on why that is important.
9
Because it actually is a popularity contest. You may wish for it to only be about policy and competence, but it's really not. Unless Hillary figures out how to overcome her lack of personality, she will lose. Unless of course the GOP rolls out someone who is even less likeable.
Lame Mrs. Clinton, really, really lame. This will not win you any votes one can hope. Perhaps some of Ms. Dunham's friends and fans will vote but this is jsut incredily sad. This is her attempt at being a "real" person? Phony comes to mind.
2
If only Hillary could come up with a cute name like "Panchito" or "Snookie Ookums" for Bruni or at least invite him to ride her tire swing, then maybe he'd be able to divine her authenticity.
4
Stop taking Hillary's personality apart!
We have survived presidents who are charming and likable and considered "someone would like to have a beer with" and they amounted to nothing!
Hillary is very smart, and conscientious with a sincere desire to make this country a better place.
Why these petty personal remarks? Could it be sexist?
We have survived presidents who are charming and likable and considered "someone would like to have a beer with" and they amounted to nothing!
Hillary is very smart, and conscientious with a sincere desire to make this country a better place.
Why these petty personal remarks? Could it be sexist?
19
Maybe you need to take her again to Cartagena, Colombia. Down there she drank beer, danced, had fun. I think her campaign is nervous, thinking that any mistake can be fatal and she still is despised by many loyal Democrats, particularly in the left. I'll say to Hillary, go back to Cartagena, drink some cold Aguilas, dance some vallenato and relax. And take Frank Bruni, Maureen Dowd and a bunch of other left-leaning pundits with you!
Do not scoff. It worked for Christie Whitman, who managed to get herself elected Governor of New Jersey by appearing on the Howard Stern show in the final days of a tossup campaign.
The attacks against HRC are so weak they don't even rise to importance of having a gate attached to them.
10
Frank, she's not my favorite for the democratic nomination. And as your article proves, the reason why, for me, is because there's no"there" there. She can do all the trumped-up pretend interviews to show she's fun and spontaneous, as well as serious and smart. But she's a cipher with only one ambition: to be the first woman president of the United States.
2
Enough parsing already, Frank - we're sick of it. And the more you parse, the more we get sick of you. Just let her be and cover the policy proposals, not the personality. We get it: she's stiff.
She should do a series of bar crawls through the Rust Belt, meeting the real middle class and chatting and drinking with them. It was moments like those in the 2008 primary campaign, where she seemed most genuine. Have a drink [which she likes], lighten up, and just talk with real people. She'd do fine in those situations, where she's at her most "human" and relateable.
She should do a series of bar crawls through the Rust Belt, meeting the real middle class and chatting and drinking with them. It was moments like those in the 2008 primary campaign, where she seemed most genuine. Have a drink [which she likes], lighten up, and just talk with real people. She'd do fine in those situations, where she's at her most "human" and relateable.
6
Part of the problem is columns like this one. Why don't Mr. Bruni and his colleagues discuss the serious policy proposals Clnton has set forth. Media response is becoming tedious.
16
There have been so many iterations of Hillary Clinton I've lost interest. She keeps shape-shifting which makes me believe "there is no there there." Actually, the sad part is she has this need to run for President. Perhaps the real Hillary would be better at mentoring the women now coming of age to be involved in politics and public policy. We've seen too many Hillary Clintons over the years. It's time for a new face putting forward a new agenda.
17
I'll take Hillary over Carly any day of the week even hung upside down with my toe nails being pulled out one-by-one.
2
Warning: Clinton Rules on full display here: everything Hillary does is contrived and calculating. There is always a hidden agenda, and so on. So much amateur psychoanalysis. The entire Republican slate is a textbook sampling of pathologies and pandering - so why this obsession with who the real Hillary Clinton is?
How about Hillary Clinton is someone of intelligence and accomplishment, someone who has been in the public eye for decades now, someone who has faced attacks, slanders, and personal disappointments that would leave many people to withdraw from public life entirely - yet she soldiers on.
How about the fact that she's stood for election and won? How about the fact that she has broad international experience in the real world? How about the fact that she's not pandering to a racist, paranoid, war-hungry base that practically demands blood sacrifice?
Thomas B. Edsall today is pondering why Republicans seem to have an advantage at the polls despite trends that should be working against them. I wonder if he's considered the role of a media obsessed with trivia while ignoring the psychopathic elephant in the room.
How about Hillary Clinton is someone of intelligence and accomplishment, someone who has been in the public eye for decades now, someone who has faced attacks, slanders, and personal disappointments that would leave many people to withdraw from public life entirely - yet she soldiers on.
How about the fact that she's stood for election and won? How about the fact that she has broad international experience in the real world? How about the fact that she's not pandering to a racist, paranoid, war-hungry base that practically demands blood sacrifice?
Thomas B. Edsall today is pondering why Republicans seem to have an advantage at the polls despite trends that should be working against them. I wonder if he's considered the role of a media obsessed with trivia while ignoring the psychopathic elephant in the room.
17
Is it possible for Hillary Clinton to do anything right on the front page of the New York Times? No matter what she tries, she gets slapped around by columnists and articles with thinly disguised agendas.
Tiresome is all I can say and disillusioned once again with Times direction (or lack thereof.)
Tiresome is all I can say and disillusioned once again with Times direction (or lack thereof.)
19
A politician's image, in today's world, has to be "constructed" in a media environment where the media is unable to come to terms with what objectivity means. The lazy response is that it is somehow the balance between extreme positions. The very question of "what is the news?" thus goes largely unheeded and unanswered and the default answer becomes whatever excites and sells. Genuine statesmanship, certainly newsworthy, which Hillary Clinton appears to possess in spades, is relegated to minor coverage and comment. It doesn't excite or sell. What we seem to be discovering is that salesmanship and statesmanship are not the same thing and that Clinton is not as good at the former as she has been and is at the latter. As in the old Soviet Union we're having to "read between the lines" to discover the truth. She's--objectively--the best statesman of the bunch and perhaps the most capable politician (a term that should not be used simply negatively). On the GOP side nobody comes close, although the far too young Rubio is attempting to portray himself as a statesman. As to the Dems, among the present top two, Sanders lacks both statesmanship and political acumen--reading between the lines.
19
I'm a white Obama liberal all the way. That said, I've never liked the Clintons. Bill's merely a charming con man. But Hillary doesn't have the charm to pull off the con. The real, arrogant Hillary showed her real self right off the bat, by dismissing Tammy Wynette and the lower orders of American women who shared her values. Clinton's a cultural and social-climbing snob. Rich women adore her. Other women and men, not so much. How can any self-respecting real liberal prefer Hillary to Bernie, the best PERSON, with the best political values, to run for the Democratic nomination since Obama.
9
Bruni, you have just proven what Fox News already figured out. We are not participating in the democratic election of the leader of the free world, we are simply watching a paid infomercial/faux reality show that we can comment on endlessly, like "Dancing with the Stars" or "The Bachelorette". We can all tweet and pontificate about Donald's trible hair, Hilary's cut out pant suits, Jeb!'s low energy and Carly Fiorina's face. Is it too much to ask that columnists and writers for the New York Times actually do their jobs and cover these candidates with a measure of decorum and attention to the issues? Columns like these are just exasperating; "Hillary, you just aren't as fun as Bill!" "Hillary can you only talk about your server and emails for the next 14 months?". We can't get any real coverage of Bernie Sanders but Fiorina's got those "monstrous-baby-brain-harvesters" on the ropes. I am embarrassed for you, your editors and your masthead today, Frank Bruni.
14
I thought when Margaret Sullivan raised the concern that many readers have about the lack of coverage of the Sanders campaign there would be some change, if only for appearance sake. But nothing like that has happened. Possibly management thinks that do so would be to capitulate to pressure. While the constant coverage of Trump and Clinton is an act of autonomy, resistance and courage on their part.
As for the reporters and columnists themselves (leaving Charles Blow out of this), I can't tell whether all this is calculated or just some huge psychological block. One explanation could be that there is a pool among reporters and columnist that whoever finds the most ingenious way to avoid mentioning Bernie Sanders name-- even when it screams out to be mentioned-- will win a trip to the Super Bowl.
As for the reporters and columnists themselves (leaving Charles Blow out of this), I can't tell whether all this is calculated or just some huge psychological block. One explanation could be that there is a pool among reporters and columnist that whoever finds the most ingenious way to avoid mentioning Bernie Sanders name-- even when it screams out to be mentioned-- will win a trip to the Super Bowl.
10
Hillary is the most qualified candidate of the bunch by far; it's too bad that the server issue has taken on a life of it's own. I don't know of any concrete harm as a result of it, but for speculation.
6
Mr. Bruni, there are literally millions of us waiting for an honest description of HC's political, economic and social ideas. We could not care less about tying some nonentity's genital video to this deeply intelligent, honorable, competent presidential candidate.
Yes, it was a silly presentation, and probably inadvisable because it was such a perfect example of easily-misinterpreted minutiae. Fortunately, Hillary will learn from that.
But in the grand scheme of national politics, it is not worth the column inches devoted to it.
New York Times and Mr. Bruni: What are Hillary Clinton's policies?
Yes, it was a silly presentation, and probably inadvisable because it was such a perfect example of easily-misinterpreted minutiae. Fortunately, Hillary will learn from that.
But in the grand scheme of national politics, it is not worth the column inches devoted to it.
New York Times and Mr. Bruni: What are Hillary Clinton's policies?
14
Maybe Hillary could be herself if people didn't speak about the things women do in sexist terms like, "pajama party." This is really terrible. And the quote from the unnamed man about "Dunham and her cohorts"... Who are these cohorts and what makes them so bad- that they are the young feminist voices of the current and possibly the next generations?
6
Nobody said Dunham or her cohorts are bad. Lena Dunham and Amy Schumer are fabulous entertainers and artists. But it is surprising that Hillary is having to go to great lengths to win the support of young progressive females. That would be like if Barack Obama was having a hard time carrying young Black men. It is strange to assume that a candidate would carry a demographic simply because they currently or historically belong to the same demographic, but it is also frequently true.
Hillary is working on a strategy to be more genuine. Does anyone else note the irony in that? She is constantly trying to change her image because she is more grounded in political aspiration than authenticity.
5
Hillary is highly qualified, highly intelligent, assertive and experienced and her heart is in the right place. I don't care about what she wears, how her email was handled, or how her campaign managers handle or mishandle her appearances. She would be an excellent president and she has my vote.
22
Enough hand wringing! Perhaps she is just not that good at campaigning. One needs to be able to WIN a campaign, not just put out qualifications. Even the best qualified will not win an election if she cannot convince the electorate to go to the polls and cast that precious vote.
3
she's insecure, way deep inside.
self-assurance in manner often tries to cover up insecurity but
hers shows through. It keeps her from releasing the sense of
humor within.
signed, Freud
self-assurance in manner often tries to cover up insecurity but
hers shows through. It keeps her from releasing the sense of
humor within.
signed, Freud
If we need to elect a Democratic woman as the next president, can we just nominate Michelle Obama? We'll get the brains, and unlike Hillary we'll get honesty and ethical behavior from Mrs. Obama. I think it is time we moved beyond Hillary, and started thinking about the next generation of Democrats.
6
Now that I've calmed down from my earlier angry comment, I want to offer this: I recently read the book "Quiet" about introversion, and here's my take on Hillary Clinton: she is the introvert to Bill Clinton's extrovert. I would bet money that she is much more personable one on one, and would prefer to talk about real issues than a celebrity clothing mishap. Like President Obama (who has adopted extroverted tendencies and yet prefers to unwind by watching basketball games after a long day), she shines in the up close and personal, not with flash but with substance. The problem with our country is that we're so busy evaluating whether or not we'd enjoy having a beer with the President, that we've stopped evaluating whether that person should actually BE president.
11
Ouch Bruni...... guess we can write about celebrity status on Trump but no one else in the ring......lighten up folks.... it's only politics..... it can't be heavy metal all the time......decides most us have already made up our minds on the first round on the dem side. in the second round we vote in the winner of round one. Trump on the repub side would be kind of refreshingly different.... don't u think just as long as he doesn't take it all.... big ouch!
1
With the Clintons you always hear the words "appearance"and "image". Rarely does the word truth come out unless preceded by the words he/she has not spoke the.
Try listening to Bernie for a while if you are tired of the clinton show.
Try listening to Bernie for a while if you are tired of the clinton show.
4
Unfortunately, the NYT is becoming more and more concerned about sensationalism and becoming almost tabloid like in selling their online drivel.
We know you are in business to make money, but this reporting is beyond the pale.
We know you are in business to make money, but this reporting is beyond the pale.
12
The constant slicing and dicing of HRC's ability to be "genuine" or "authentic" is beyond old, it's practically fossilized. Was this commentary found in the cave in South Africa along with the Australopithecus bones? I'm not the first person to leap on everything said about women and shout "sexism!", but the longer this goes on, the harder it becomes to ignore the way Hillary is analyzed vs. the way, for example, John Ellis Bush is analyzed in the Times.
Please, stop patronizing the readership and pretending this isn't part of the NYT's "anti-endorsement", along with the constant harping on the non-existent "scandals" of emails and Benghazi. Please, give us substance, like possibly an overview of the candidate's policy positions? Just maybe?
Please, stop patronizing the readership and pretending this isn't part of the NYT's "anti-endorsement", along with the constant harping on the non-existent "scandals" of emails and Benghazi. Please, give us substance, like possibly an overview of the candidate's policy positions? Just maybe?
9
It is a sad day for America when the front runners for both parties are described by potential voters as "liar"; deceitful; arrogant; clown.
Is this what a democracy is supposed to be?
Is this what a democracy is supposed to be?
3
She's damned if she does and damned if she doesn't! She has given years in the service of this nation. Authentic!? How authentic is that?
14
Hillery is trapped.
If she were to unload some choice piece of profanity, many of us would joyfully jump on the bus, but then, simultaneously, many supporters would jump out the back door
If she were to unload some choice piece of profanity, many of us would joyfully jump on the bus, but then, simultaneously, many supporters would jump out the back door
1
That Clinton is "devoid of soul and sweep, a series of labored gestures and precisely staked positions" is not a matter of her campaign, it goes to the actual notion of her being president. The whole idea of electing a new president is the promise of something new, something fresh and a new start. And voters are enthusiastic over a fresh and new future.
Clinton offers none of that. There is nothing unique or special about her. She is not a great personality and doesn't have any particular charisma, she does not exude energy. She does not offer a new take on anything. She is nothing more than a boilerplate democrat.
If her name was not Clinton she would have never even have been considered for a candidate. And the reason she is well known is not because of anything she has ever accomplished, and certainly not for standing for a certain political viewpoint, nor for any leadership qualities.
In fact she has never achieved a single thing on her own merit. She became a senator on NY not because she cared a wit about the people of NY and wanted to serve them, but for the most selfish reasons. That she wanted to become a senator and there was an opening in NY so she moved there and got herself elected using Bill's political connections.
And she was chosen to serve as secretary of state not because she had a drop of experience of foreign policy or diplomacy, but simply as a nice gesture from Obama.
As such she offers no good reason why she should be elected president.
Clinton offers none of that. There is nothing unique or special about her. She is not a great personality and doesn't have any particular charisma, she does not exude energy. She does not offer a new take on anything. She is nothing more than a boilerplate democrat.
If her name was not Clinton she would have never even have been considered for a candidate. And the reason she is well known is not because of anything she has ever accomplished, and certainly not for standing for a certain political viewpoint, nor for any leadership qualities.
In fact she has never achieved a single thing on her own merit. She became a senator on NY not because she cared a wit about the people of NY and wanted to serve them, but for the most selfish reasons. That she wanted to become a senator and there was an opening in NY so she moved there and got herself elected using Bill's political connections.
And she was chosen to serve as secretary of state not because she had a drop of experience of foreign policy or diplomacy, but simply as a nice gesture from Obama.
As such she offers no good reason why she should be elected president.
4
A president needs to be a leader, able to inspire citizens from all parts of the country to pressure their legislators to get things done. Obama has been great at this, as was Clinton. THey weren't all policy -- they were a lot storytellers, leaders. Hillary is as boring as dishwater, unable to inspire, and has left a sour taste in many women's mouths with her defense of Clinton in matters involving Monica Lewinski, defending her poor defenseless husband as having been hoodwinked by a young Mata Hari. Younger women won't remember this, but if you were a sentient human being at the time of the scandal, you will. I admire her by salvaging her marriage, but not for pitying him as too weak to resist the ambitions of a young staffer. Monica was the victim, not Bill.
She may have good (thought constantly shifting, depending on the moment) policies which she either believed all along and was afraid to announce, or maybe she changed her mind, like the Keystone Pipeline. This is not a leader. I'll vote for her, if I have no choice, but with that sour taste in my mouth.
She may have good (thought constantly shifting, depending on the moment) policies which she either believed all along and was afraid to announce, or maybe she changed her mind, like the Keystone Pipeline. This is not a leader. I'll vote for her, if I have no choice, but with that sour taste in my mouth.
3
You've archly "lost track of which version we're on"? Really, what could she possibly do at this point that you guys wouldn't pick apart & disparage? My dream of actual discussion & attention on her proposals is shattered anew with each morning edition, Frank. I'm sorry to see you join this parade.
12
Thank you Frank for finally writing an intelligent critique of Hillary Clinton rather than the usual bashing we read in the NYT especially from Dowd or the ongoing non events of her emails and Benghazi. I doubt that anyone would ever accuse Angela Merkel of exhibiting much "personality" but she is effective. What more can we ask in a leader but to lead. And no I am a Bernie Sanders supporter but I would also gladly vote for Hillary the policy wonk any day over anyone remotely connected with the Republican party at the moment.
5
Her campaign right now is less than stellar but, technically, it doesn't really start until the Republicans sort it out. Bernie is just making sure she stays to the center or leftward. As for Biden? PLEEEEZE NO!. But pajama party? When was Frank Bruni at a pajama party? I read the column and it doesn't sound like any "pajama" party I would recognize. In the 1950s and 60s, half the "girls" have hair in curlers and rest are wearing baby doll pajamas. Sorry Mr. Bruni, but you come across as sexist using that "girlie" mage. Would you do the same with Trump and his pals? Or Sanders? I doubt it.
11
Face it, Bill and all the men running against her never had to bake cookies to stay in the arena. It is such a nonstarter. Hillary is damned if she or doesn't whatever someone decides. And it's just as likely there wouldn't have been a Bill if there wasn't a Hillary. She for guts and determination. Next to the fluff, crazies and downright serial liars opposed to her, she's the best. She knows what the problems are and best of all, she knows hoe to get things done.
6
“New efforts to bring spontaneity. . ." just says it all. Recalls Nixon's well-planned "spontaneous demonstration" at the '72 GOP convention.
3
Hillary has no need to hurry. Her campaign has time to shape her public persona and systematically stake out her positions while the GOP's food fight continues. While Hillary inches forward, the GOP is providing the country with a mesmerizing spectacle of ignorance, delusion and egos running wild. Hillary has very little to worry about.
3
What a surprise, another catty NY Times column by Bruni or Dowd trashing a Clinton. Haven't seen many of those before. Next we'll get the "We'd rather have a beer with Bush." article and it will be the 2000 campaign all over again.
11
Op Ed writers have no obligation to write anything. I assume you write because you get paid to write, huh? So, to a large degree it is up to you to decide what to write about. I suppose choosing to write about personality traits, gaffs, and unsubstantiated rumors makes for a more salacious piece and gets more comments thus demonstrating that your columns are a "draw" for the paper.
For my part I'd like to read substantive stuff based on hard evidence. You know, grownup stuff.
For my part I'd like to read substantive stuff based on hard evidence. You know, grownup stuff.
9
The other day your columnist blamed Germany for the Volkswagen debacle; today your columnist falls to new lows on coverage of the campaign.
What is going on? Is the NYT trying to compete with Fox "News"?
What is going on? Is the NYT trying to compete with Fox "News"?
9
Would it be so hard to cover Cllinton v Sanders v O'Mallley on policy, rather than campaign strategy and polls?
Same goes for the GOP.
Same goes for the GOP.
9
I'm tired of talk of appearances. Get to the issues or don't take up column space.
13
What is a candidate to be? Intelligent, compassionate, and reasonably well-spoken? Telegenic, genuine, kind, warm, spontaneous? What about just a few of these qualities and some bad ones? What do you want? These people are driven to seek power and their advisors attempt to mold them to fit what, at that moment, the public clamors for. Nixon was no winner in most of the above categories, whilst Bill Clinton was. What about Truman? How about George W? I don't care about Hillary's "labored spontaneity." And I sure don't care about her email problem since I imagine all the other Secretaries of State have had secretive, quasi-illegal shenanigans with their forms of communication. Hillary Clinton possesses qualities that some people are uneasy with, but she has enough qualities for me to want to vote for her as President.
6
Enough already with the columns about Hillary's "personality". I hate to say it, but your numerous columns on this subject are an echo of Maureen Dowd's trivializing Al Gore's blandness back in 2000. I would have expected better of you, Mr. Bruni.
How about discussing policy from now on!
How about discussing policy from now on!
9
Wow, Mr. Bruni nailed Hillary Clinton's zealous attempts to win over supposedly hipster HBO cable TV fans with another trying to hard Coca Cola campaign. Lena Dunham is the poster child for attention whoredom whether it be producing a show with herself as the nude star having sex with countless supposedly hip Brooklynites or penning a supposedly witty autobiography about her plethora of neuroses including long chapter about her OCD which causes her to repeatedly wind her hair around her pinkie fingers for hours at a time. Since Hollywood is the potential cure for her lagging poll numbers, Hillary is once again stooping to conquer by worshiping manufactured false idols in hopes of winning over the hip TV crowd. Clinton is nothing but an empty politicians in a pantsuit who is almost a Republican posing as a pseudo liberal Democrat. She waited until the Pope said it was cool to be an environmentalist and battle climate change to actively say she was against the Keystone XL Pipeline. She is another war hawk who supported the Iraq War as well as bombing the gizzards out of Syria without any logical rationale. I will vote for Bernie Sanders or Joe Biden although would vote for Kasich instead of Billary if it comes down to the lesser of two evils. Shame on her for being such a spineless, poll obsessed (like Lena) obsequious panderer to the popular vote instead of someone who represents a reformer of the current abyss of status quo, greed & superficial political sound bites.
4
I am a liberal Democrat and I will never vote for a man or woman who voted to give unlimited war powers to a non-elected U.S. puppet President based on lies from Dick Cheney, Donald Rumsfeld et al. I suspected then that the “yellow cake uranium” story was phony and I was correct. I do not care how charming Hillary Clinton attempts to be. She is a lousy analyst.
5
VC,
So if she's the candidate, you'll sit out, or vote for a Republican?
Not too smart.
So if she's the candidate, you'll sit out, or vote for a Republican?
Not too smart.
1
I'm wondering if I'm alone in thinking I'm not going to read another article about Hilary until the general election. One would think, from reading headlines and op-ed pieces that Hilary Clinton is in serious trouble as a candidate. But a publication called The New York Times updates daily something called "Who's Winning the Presidential Campaign? Click here if you don't believe me (http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2016/us/elections/presidential-candid.... Here you will discover that someone with the name Hilary Clinton (who?) leads Bernie Saunders in Iowa. Yes she is in second place in New Hampshire, the state right next to Bernie Sanders'. But please, imagine a debate between the two of them when suddenly people are reminded, as the media won't, why they actually kind of like Hilary. And take a good hard look at Mr. Sanders. He's no Barack Obama! So for my doctor's sake--he doesn't like my blood pressure numbers--I avoid almost everything the Times' writes on this topic and that's a shame.
3
H.C. is too packaged and what is missing is her ability to handled complicated issues that need serious administrative skills that H.C., so far, has not shown.
Her experience as S.O.S. is a case in point. Richard Holbrooke did all the heavy liiftng. One gets the impression that if elected ,H.C. will be the front for Bill Clinton, serving his 3rd tem as Potus.
Her experience as S.O.S. is a case in point. Richard Holbrooke did all the heavy liiftng. One gets the impression that if elected ,H.C. will be the front for Bill Clinton, serving his 3rd tem as Potus.
4
President Obama's infamous "she's likable enough" comment during the 2008 campaign is now beginning to reveal an interesting resonance.
Being "likable" as a prerequisite for the presidency was never a "thing" until George Bush's campaign by necessity made it one, because he was totally unqualified for the job otherwise.
All he had to do was pass their moronic "who would you like to have a hamburger with" test, instead of demonstrating his competency.
Let's focus on Hillary's competency instead of her likability, as it's a long shot that most of us will be sharing a hamburger with her at a lunch counter anytime soon.
I don't care if she's likable or not, and it doesn't bother me that she's trying a little too hard to seem that way. Most of us want to be liked, even Hillary Clinton.
Let's stop obsessing about it so much, it's not that big of a deal.
Being "likable" as a prerequisite for the presidency was never a "thing" until George Bush's campaign by necessity made it one, because he was totally unqualified for the job otherwise.
All he had to do was pass their moronic "who would you like to have a hamburger with" test, instead of demonstrating his competency.
Let's focus on Hillary's competency instead of her likability, as it's a long shot that most of us will be sharing a hamburger with her at a lunch counter anytime soon.
I don't care if she's likable or not, and it doesn't bother me that she's trying a little too hard to seem that way. Most of us want to be liked, even Hillary Clinton.
Let's stop obsessing about it so much, it's not that big of a deal.
6
Hillary has no spontaneity because her entire persona is poll tested and changes like the weather. Let's face it if this woman ever makes it to the WH it will be a serious mystery what Hillary we will encounter and it won't be good because she is disingenuous !!!!
4
So why are you adding fuel to the non-story of her supposedly boring personality? I'd like her to be more boring, but then I'm not a pundit who is a bright shiny personality competing among other bright shiny celebrity journalists; I just want a smart, experienced person running the country. Sort of like Angela Merkel. A woman taken seriously, without the inane focus on her personality and appearance.
9
I really loved Lena Dunham before she jumped the shark with this horribly contrived interview.
And as for Mr. Bruni, you too are jumping the shark, albeit in slow motion, as you and your fellow journalists continue to write about the non issues as opposed to the bland wonky stuff American citizens needs to hear to focus on the real issues.
Shame on you.
And as for Mr. Bruni, you too are jumping the shark, albeit in slow motion, as you and your fellow journalists continue to write about the non issues as opposed to the bland wonky stuff American citizens needs to hear to focus on the real issues.
Shame on you.
8
I loved Ronald Reagan but could never vote for him. I dislike Hillary a lot but will vote for her because she believes in the same things I do (or vice versa). That's just life or as the Rolling Stones so aptly put it, "you can't always get what you want, but if you try sometimes you just might get what you need".
5
I found this column irrelevant and disturbing. There is an important presidential election in a little over a year, and Mr. Bruni is concerned about the forced "spontaneity" of the likely Democratic nominee. Ms. Clinton, unlike her husband, is not a natural political talent, but she represents a vision of America where the rich and corporations pay their fair share (i.e., contribute more in taxes), and where the safety net (i.e., Obamacare, Social Security, etc.) is strengthened. On the other hand, the Republican vision is to cut taxes for the wealthy and corporations and start dismantling the safety net. In light of what is at stake in the upcoming election, I don't care at all about Ms. Clinton's spontaneity, sense of humor, or her private email server.
11
A pajama party? That, right there, gives up the ghost of sexism that bedevils too many of Bruni's columns. And his evidence that this is the wrong way to reach young women? The opinions of a few other male political operatives (even if you have to read carefully to figure this out). This column is the epitome of clueless mansplaining.
9
Give Hillary a break. Is she perfect? No. But I would take her over any of the other contenders on the right. Imagine Trump in the White House wearing his ridiculous hat and terrible comb-over. Hillary will get things done. And Bernie Sanders? What is he doing? Don't waste your vote. Hillary for President!
5
I just want Hillary to be knowledgeable about the issues and the players, committed to giving a voice to the powerless, unafraid to speak truth to power and determined to bring it down when it's abusing its privilege, and fight for liberal, progressive ideals like an end to economic oppression, a clean environment, and equal protection under the law. She can be as dull as dirt as long as she does all that.
And I would still want to have a beer with her!
And I would still want to have a beer with her!
9
Hillary is devoid of authentic passion. I'm sorry she is trivializing herself now. I so much want a female President at long last, and I will vote for Hillary, but without enthusiasm.
Here's the deal: Hillary Clinton is running for president, not one of my girlfriends from monthly book group. I didn't vote for Obama or Bill because they seemed like good guys to have a beer with either. I vote on the issues and how the candidates articulate their policy positions. At the moment, I'm 100% behind Sanders but if Hillary Clinton is the nominee she has my vote. I don't care if she is stiff, doesn't know how to tell a joke or wears pantsuits. She's smart, acommplished and does her homework, and will enter the White House ready to govern.
12
Hillary Clinton is the very first woman to be seriously considered as electable to the Presidency in the history of the United States.
As a result the electorate is groping for a definition and an image of exactly what this person/woman should be as she presents herself to them on the hustings for the nomination to the office that she seeks.
In addition the image of her as the first woman President is also one that cannot be clearly visualized and/or defined.
Thus the conundrum of how she should be presented in the mind and the eye of the viewing public.
What is the image that each person visualizes and applies to her.
Is it mother, daughter, wife, girlfriend, friend, caregiver, companion, confidant, taskmaster, employer, employee, colleague, chairperson, diplomat, statesperson, and any other term that one can call to mind in this regard.
I for one salute her for her many accomplishments, her steadfastness, and her attention to the needs and welfare of citizens of all ages - especially for women and children.
If she is the nominee for the Democratic Party then I shall vote for her as her image far outweighs the images of any and all of the Republican alternatives.
There is more to "image" then meets the eye.
As a result the electorate is groping for a definition and an image of exactly what this person/woman should be as she presents herself to them on the hustings for the nomination to the office that she seeks.
In addition the image of her as the first woman President is also one that cannot be clearly visualized and/or defined.
Thus the conundrum of how she should be presented in the mind and the eye of the viewing public.
What is the image that each person visualizes and applies to her.
Is it mother, daughter, wife, girlfriend, friend, caregiver, companion, confidant, taskmaster, employer, employee, colleague, chairperson, diplomat, statesperson, and any other term that one can call to mind in this regard.
I for one salute her for her many accomplishments, her steadfastness, and her attention to the needs and welfare of citizens of all ages - especially for women and children.
If she is the nominee for the Democratic Party then I shall vote for her as her image far outweighs the images of any and all of the Republican alternatives.
There is more to "image" then meets the eye.
42
It's beyond disappointing. The idea that she's interested in seeing Lenny's junk on You Tube is not the kind of humor a candidate for President should be involved in. Is there no one in the Clinton campaign with a brain or a modicum of taste? Every time Hillary tries to be warm and fuzzy she seems more like a robot trying to program itself for emotions. Let her be herself. At some point all these embarrassments will sink her.
26
Agreed, the idea that she is interested in seeing Lenny's junk on you tube..if any one of the male candidates running pulled that stunt the feminist grievance industry would be all over it! She should stay away from the likes of Lena Dunham and Hillary, just go away.
Yea, that Lenny Kravitz junk ploy was truly a low for Clinton, but one of the few low's she has had. For the most part, she has remained a woman of great dignity. She is just trying too hard to not be herself, I guess, although I have never met her and can't presume she doesn't have a snarky side to her sense of humor.
HRC did not do her homework when it came to the Iraq war vote.
2
I think Hillary Clinton is an American patriot. I think she is running for President because she wants to serve our country. I think she agrees with FDR that, "The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much it is whether we provide enough for those who have little."
I think the New York Times and NY Times op ed columnists disagree with my opinions.
I think the New York Times and NY Times op ed columnists disagree with my opinions.
10
Not to mention that, given her personal story, jokes about male anatomy would be forever locked away. Inconceivably tasteless.
life long Democrat here.
no Hillary isn't the overwhelming favorite.
i support Sanders cause he's for real.
and i've yet to see anyone list what Hillary actually accomplished
as Secretary of State or as a Senator.
drop the packaging Hillary and run as whoever you are.
no Hillary isn't the overwhelming favorite.
i support Sanders cause he's for real.
and i've yet to see anyone list what Hillary actually accomplished
as Secretary of State or as a Senator.
drop the packaging Hillary and run as whoever you are.
1
Speak for yourself Mr. Bruni -- I, for one, am pretty excited to have a smart, progressive, feminist, experienced, serious woman as President. My daughters are excited too. I could not care less about her flaws as an entertainer. That's not her job, is it? Why don't you report on something of substance instead of just mouthing off about how you don't like her style? And by the way, NYT, "Hillary's Clinton's Pajama Party" is a sexist, demeaning headline.
9
"She is fiercely intelligent but, yes, wildly defensive. She does her homework with uncommon diligence and earnestness but can be a dud on the stump. She’s impressively controlled. She’s distressingly controlling."
Isn't this the very definition of "the adult in the room" that Democrats crave, and not the clowns and show boaters on the other side?
Why can't Democrats, for once, accept "yes" as in yes, you have a candidate who can not only get elected president but can govern the country.
Isn't this the very definition of "the adult in the room" that Democrats crave, and not the clowns and show boaters on the other side?
Why can't Democrats, for once, accept "yes" as in yes, you have a candidate who can not only get elected president but can govern the country.
8
Yes, let's elect the most popular candidate... not the one who is most qualified, or most intelligent, or the most experienced, or who will do the best job.
"Do they like me? How can I get the cool kids to vote for me?"
Unfortunately voters act like high school students... all about popularity & nothing about substance.
"Do they like me? How can I get the cool kids to vote for me?"
Unfortunately voters act like high school students... all about popularity & nothing about substance.
3
I really like Frank Bruni, but this was a waste of column inches on things that in no way bear on Mrs. Clinton's suitability for candidacy or office. Please be substantive.
9
I'll say this, the liberal left and dems are infatuated with HRC. They keep dragging out this tired old woman who lacks any real genuine sense of self. If this is the best the Dems can do with her then they are in bigger trouble than the GOP.
1
Personally, I am not interested in her rebranding. I think she is quite adept at that.
Yes. She was a Senator, first lady and Secretary of State. Her record in these positions distinguishes her from the other candidates and not in a flattering way.
Yes. She was a Senator, first lady and Secretary of State. Her record in these positions distinguishes her from the other candidates and not in a flattering way.
1
Poor Hillary. All this needless struggle to present herself as she is not. All Hillary needs to do is present herself as an American Democratic Party version of Angela Merkel. That's who she is. We'll all be able to understand that.
33
If we could point to a single column exposing the vacuousness of what passes for political journalism in this country, surely this would Exhibit A. Bruni focuses on a snippet of video promoting a longer, far more substantive interview which he, predictably, ignores. This is rich coming from the reporter whose coverage of George W. Bush's campaign in 2000 could be summed up as "the kind of guy you want to have a beer with!"
11
Really sad that the press is laser focused on Hillary's emails and some light moments rather than her very substantive policy pronouncements and wealth of the right experience for the job.
Next to the caustic, cold-hearted and lying ways of Carly Fiorina whose campaign is founded solely on her ruinous corporate "leadership" experience that took down HP and Lucent -- taking national treasure Bell Labs and the retirement savings of millions of Americans with it -- Hillary is a pure breath of fresh air.
Next to the caustic, cold-hearted and lying ways of Carly Fiorina whose campaign is founded solely on her ruinous corporate "leadership" experience that took down HP and Lucent -- taking national treasure Bell Labs and the retirement savings of millions of Americans with it -- Hillary is a pure breath of fresh air.
7
Anyone who has paid attention to United Airlines' safety video will not be surprised that Hillary has now donned an entertainer's hat in her quest for the Oval Office.
Like Hillary, United has concluded Americans are hopelessly overstimulated and addicted to being entertained. Accordingly, the airline has decided the only way to feed us imporant safety announcements is by presenting them as a quirky video fantasy that is - you guessed it - entertaining.
I just hope that in an emergency, passengers and voters alike will remember that not paying attention to reality can be fatal.
Like Hillary, United has concluded Americans are hopelessly overstimulated and addicted to being entertained. Accordingly, the airline has decided the only way to feed us imporant safety announcements is by presenting them as a quirky video fantasy that is - you guessed it - entertaining.
I just hope that in an emergency, passengers and voters alike will remember that not paying attention to reality can be fatal.
6
Like I told my son about Auburn University's quarterback to start the season who was being discussed as a Heisman candidate--there was a reason the kid didn't start, and it wasn't just because of his youth. It was because he wasn't as good as the guy who was starting. After a disastrous start to the season, the putative Heisman candidate has been benched again, this time for a redshirt freshman.
There's a reason Hillary didn't beat Obama, and it had little to do with the country going gaga over the idea of electing a black man. It's because people, save perhaps the New York intelligentsia, don't like her. And it's not their fault they don't like her. It's because she's not likable. Forget her politics, it grates like fingernails on a blackboard when she tries to be folksy and real, because, as you say, it is a calculated effort to appear less calculated.
Hillary just doesn't get it. My prediction--if the Democrats nominate Hillary, Republicans could nominate a yellow dog and beat her.
There's a reason Hillary didn't beat Obama, and it had little to do with the country going gaga over the idea of electing a black man. It's because people, save perhaps the New York intelligentsia, don't like her. And it's not their fault they don't like her. It's because she's not likable. Forget her politics, it grates like fingernails on a blackboard when she tries to be folksy and real, because, as you say, it is a calculated effort to appear less calculated.
Hillary just doesn't get it. My prediction--if the Democrats nominate Hillary, Republicans could nominate a yellow dog and beat her.
2
Bruni will "blame us in part?" He is kidding right? Maureen Dowd and his columns about Clinton have been gratuitously mean and fatuous. If anything I have come away from them thinking that times writers are not nearly as smart as I assumed. The coverage of the email nonsense has been one Media outlet after another seeing who could run a more trivial story.
9
Great column. It defines exactly how I feel about the Clinton campaign. In 2008 I was a strong supporter, but she's worn me down: emails, silly interviews, defensiveness, double talk on Keystone, Iraq, Libya - I found the "we came, we saw, he died" line very cold and inappropriate; look at who's dying now.
I see myself voting for her in 2016, given the competition, but it won't be a vote with a full heart.
I see myself voting for her in 2016, given the competition, but it won't be a vote with a full heart.
Okay, come on now. You go on a show trying show how hip you are, and appear in something that looks like it would have fit right into an 80s double knit party. I'm pretty sure they could afford a stylist, so I don't get it. Perhaps she needs more practice. On to Trevor Noah.
But let's talk about real news. The question is, why does the Times repeat that she's the favorite? She isn't. Bernie Sanders is ahead in the polls.
But let's talk about real news. The question is, why does the Times repeat that she's the favorite? She isn't. Bernie Sanders is ahead in the polls.
3
You are giving Heat to Hilary for trying to be Personable ? Did you happen to catch Dragon-Lady Fiorina's attempts at this recently ? Talk about Disingenuous & Phony to the Max !
4
Some seasoned politician, whose name I can't remember, was asked, "What's the hardest thing about being a politician?" His reply: "Faking sincerity."
The analogue in Hillary Clinton's case is the dilemma of how can one deliberately plan to display one's own spontaneity?
The analogue in Hillary Clinton's case is the dilemma of how can one deliberately plan to display one's own spontaneity?
1
Bruni should have stopped at "I blame us." and left out the "in part." By "us" I mean our "baser" level and the media that panders to it.
Bill easily crossed the line between gravitas, high-minded and "folksy" without sacrificing anything. Bush did not. He took the Presidential mantle down a notch due to his over-folksiness, downright inane comments along with his well-known ineptness with language. That said, the office of President was still respected. When Obama was elected, through no fault of his own, respect for the office itself diminished. While Obama also has a charming personality where he can easily cross a line to appeal some folks, he does not appeal as broadly to White people who are less educated.
Throughout the last fifteen years we, through the media, have projected that our President be "just one of us." Even Trump -- though clearly way above the hoi polloi (he is "rich" and "great") -- gets approval because he says dumb things just like "we do." This all makes for good publicity and it sells so the media just does it more.
I want a President to be smarter, better informed, more courageous (convictions), have more experience with foreign entities and domestic issues, have a broader network of smart informed people, be better equipped to deal with crises and human interactions, be a better speaker and better at leading than I am and certainly better than the average "folks."
I also want a media that has integrity and that does not pander.
Bill easily crossed the line between gravitas, high-minded and "folksy" without sacrificing anything. Bush did not. He took the Presidential mantle down a notch due to his over-folksiness, downright inane comments along with his well-known ineptness with language. That said, the office of President was still respected. When Obama was elected, through no fault of his own, respect for the office itself diminished. While Obama also has a charming personality where he can easily cross a line to appeal some folks, he does not appeal as broadly to White people who are less educated.
Throughout the last fifteen years we, through the media, have projected that our President be "just one of us." Even Trump -- though clearly way above the hoi polloi (he is "rich" and "great") -- gets approval because he says dumb things just like "we do." This all makes for good publicity and it sells so the media just does it more.
I want a President to be smarter, better informed, more courageous (convictions), have more experience with foreign entities and domestic issues, have a broader network of smart informed people, be better equipped to deal with crises and human interactions, be a better speaker and better at leading than I am and certainly better than the average "folks."
I also want a media that has integrity and that does not pander.
5
This quote from your column shows how much you and other Hillary apologists and lovers are out of touch with mainstream Democrats like myself: "I think that Clinton is actually in less trouble than we sometimes speculate. She remains the overwhelming favorite for the Democratic nomination." She is in more trouble than you and NYTimes and others think and it will not show up in polls. No one trusts her and very few Dems will go to the polls if she is the candidate. They'll stay home.
2
The Wisdom is in the Comments....."I've Given Up My Search For Truth......
And I'm !ooking For A Good Fantasy". (Ashleigh Brilliant) While the Media is Focussed on Fluff, the Public is being suffocated by Innanity.
And I'm !ooking For A Good Fantasy". (Ashleigh Brilliant) While the Media is Focussed on Fluff, the Public is being suffocated by Innanity.
4
We Americans like to fool ourselves that those hoping to be president are just folks like us. Well, they are not. Everyone of them lives in a different world than most of us. Remember Al Gore being told he needed to wear more earthtones or John Kerry's wind surfing outfit.this seems to be a problem that afflicts Democrats more than Republicans. Their authenticity never seems to be questioned in the trivial way the Democrats are. Perhaps because their ideas are so outlandish that no one would knowingly make that stuff up. The harder candidates try to alter their image, the more contrived they seem. Part of the problem is the grueling length of the campaigns . Candidates come under scrutiny almost every day and the press has to have something new to say. It is an unforgiving system for all of us.
2
Look, as evidenced below, Hillary boosters are going to stay incensed irrespective the nature or substance of the criticism. Numerous are the posts here stating: we don't care if she's stiff or artificial, we care about the policies she elucidates. But it is precisely this lack of authenticity, and outright mendacity, on the part of our political class that is driving the current groundswell of disillusionment (think Donald Trump).
Bill Clinton (whom I voted for) to this day styles himself an advocate of social justice, yet it was his rewriting of the American Reinvestment Act, repeal of Glass-Steagall, and vigorous opposition to CFEC oversight of complex financial instruments that set the table of the 2008 financial crisis. Likewise, Barack Obama (whom I also voted for) claimed he would find and punish the culprits behind said financial crisis. However, when elected, he appointed a former corporate defense attorney as his AG, with the result that not a SINGLE Wall Street executive, underwriter, investment banker or hedge fund manager spent even a single day in prison. Indeed, during Mr. Holder's tenure, HSBC, caught red handed laundering money for the Sinaloa Cartel, got off with a fine (in contrast, despite strong personal connections to the Bush White House, ALL the major officers of Enron went to prison).
So when I start having queasy feelings about Hillary's truthfulness or honesty, please don't tell me all that matters is what she says. Been down that road before.
Bill Clinton (whom I voted for) to this day styles himself an advocate of social justice, yet it was his rewriting of the American Reinvestment Act, repeal of Glass-Steagall, and vigorous opposition to CFEC oversight of complex financial instruments that set the table of the 2008 financial crisis. Likewise, Barack Obama (whom I also voted for) claimed he would find and punish the culprits behind said financial crisis. However, when elected, he appointed a former corporate defense attorney as his AG, with the result that not a SINGLE Wall Street executive, underwriter, investment banker or hedge fund manager spent even a single day in prison. Indeed, during Mr. Holder's tenure, HSBC, caught red handed laundering money for the Sinaloa Cartel, got off with a fine (in contrast, despite strong personal connections to the Bush White House, ALL the major officers of Enron went to prison).
So when I start having queasy feelings about Hillary's truthfulness or honesty, please don't tell me all that matters is what she says. Been down that road before.
34
You sincerely believe that the first Clinton was responsible for the messes made in 2008 under 8 years of W foolishly spending the national blood and treasure while furthering deregulation?!? Man, you have outstanding abilities to possess great oversight of the facts.
1
The point of this piece seems to be that image is everything and Sec. Clinton simply needs a better acting coach to be a viable candidate. What nonsense!
I couldn't care less about her image or her spontaneity lack thereof. She's been in public life for over thirty years and has a record to show for it. That's what's important and that's what the press should be emphasizing. It's not a record that I find particularly appealing, especially her hawkish stance on so many international issues.
But at least that's a matter of substance, not a media makeover that matters for absolutely nothing.
I couldn't care less about her image or her spontaneity lack thereof. She's been in public life for over thirty years and has a record to show for it. That's what's important and that's what the press should be emphasizing. It's not a record that I find particularly appealing, especially her hawkish stance on so many international issues.
But at least that's a matter of substance, not a media makeover that matters for absolutely nothing.
3
The reality is that Mrs Clinton is not very impressive. That's a handicap she has been dealing with. People love to hate her. And trash her. She's a natural magnet for criticism.
Ever since she stepped into the public life, she has been mercilessly attacked by everyone who hasn't been her friends. She lost her first battle to have a universal healthcare - she was a poor tactician there. But won her NY Senate race, which wasn't all that difficult.
She lost her critical bid to win presidency - both she & president Clinton played their hands poorly when Barack Obama blind-sided them; that was her best time to be president. Personally, it was a disappointment to both but the country, we all paid a price. How high that price was, we wouldn't know until & if she wins this time and runs the country for a few years. Obama has been a good president but Clinton would have been better.
I hope, she will be our next president. It will be good for the country, and hopefully for the world. I pray for her success. Whatever will be, will be.
Ever since she stepped into the public life, she has been mercilessly attacked by everyone who hasn't been her friends. She lost her first battle to have a universal healthcare - she was a poor tactician there. But won her NY Senate race, which wasn't all that difficult.
She lost her critical bid to win presidency - both she & president Clinton played their hands poorly when Barack Obama blind-sided them; that was her best time to be president. Personally, it was a disappointment to both but the country, we all paid a price. How high that price was, we wouldn't know until & if she wins this time and runs the country for a few years. Obama has been a good president but Clinton would have been better.
I hope, she will be our next president. It will be good for the country, and hopefully for the world. I pray for her success. Whatever will be, will be.
1
Here's Hilary at her best; Honest and Decisive, saying what needs to be said while respecting the person she's talking to. If more attention was given to this side of her, she;d be a shoo-in.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=2&v=eY9zpv7nZYo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=2&v=eY9zpv7nZYo
3
Who is paying you for the tripe? the kochheads? You're like a tired mo dowd in drag. From someone I once believed a gifted, thoughtful writer, you write drivel. There's so much material out their in clown train land, yet, nothing. There so much you could write positively about Bernie Sanders, nothing. Why don't you take a sabbatical and grow up.
3
Is Frank going to write his next article about Carly Fiorina's attempts at showing her human and girly self? What about Donald Trump downing some brewskis with the guys? Or Marco Rubio bowling? will we get to see that next?
Why do only the female candidates have to be human?
Why do only the female candidates have to be human?
7
More Sturm und Drang about and hand-wringing about Hillary Clinton. This has been going on for what, thirty years now and still no end to it? Apparently Mr. Bruni felt obligated to join the throng of Hillary ghouls - Maureen Doud being the head cheerleader of this crowd.
Mrs. Clinton has been examined by everyone but a proctologist and nothing substantial or even credible has been dug up about her other than that fact that she works very hard, is very smart and does not suffer fools gladly. The lunatic rumors and hysterical gossip regarding this woman - from Whitewater to Benghazi to the murder of Vince Foster - yes, Hillary is a coldblooded killer, too! - have been endless and endemic in the Conspiracy Crowd.
Now Mr. Bruni has joined the cabal. I guess it was just a matter of time. As for me, I will vote for her should she gain the Democratic nomination. Compared to the Carnival of Clowns seeking the Republican nomination, she is Joan of Arc.
Mrs. Clinton has been examined by everyone but a proctologist and nothing substantial or even credible has been dug up about her other than that fact that she works very hard, is very smart and does not suffer fools gladly. The lunatic rumors and hysterical gossip regarding this woman - from Whitewater to Benghazi to the murder of Vince Foster - yes, Hillary is a coldblooded killer, too! - have been endless and endemic in the Conspiracy Crowd.
Now Mr. Bruni has joined the cabal. I guess it was just a matter of time. As for me, I will vote for her should she gain the Democratic nomination. Compared to the Carnival of Clowns seeking the Republican nomination, she is Joan of Arc.
7
I believe the key for Hillary is, indeed, being the first woman president. This is huge. But she has to find a way to express this, without looking foolish.
It is not just about equality, but SYNERGY. When men and women can work together, as equals there is the potential for synergy and great promise. But as long as women are held back the synergy is missing.
We don't have to fall in love with Hillary to benefit from the energy of having a woman president. This is huge.
Run Hillary, run!
============
It is not just about equality, but SYNERGY. When men and women can work together, as equals there is the potential for synergy and great promise. But as long as women are held back the synergy is missing.
We don't have to fall in love with Hillary to benefit from the energy of having a woman president. This is huge.
Run Hillary, run!
============
3
Synergy? Seriously? Any evidence for that? Or is this just more liberal hocum?
With Lena Dunham, the candidate gives us a fresh glimpse of her underwear.
2
Ok, so... I read the "hard-hitting interview" with an obviously un-biased Lena Dunham. I mean, what could be more inauthentic than Hillary? Oh yeah, a contrived, inauthentic millennial like Lena Dunham.
but what could be more "authentic" than ANOTHER re-introduction of Hillary Clinton? Pass the faux-pearls!
but what could be more "authentic" than ANOTHER re-introduction of Hillary Clinton? Pass the faux-pearls!
1
Whaddya mean "we," Frank?
"For years we’ve demanded that she show us something more raw, that she weep or bleed or chirp or quip, that a policy wonk isn’t enough..."
No we haven't. What we've demanded for years is that she stop lying about everything.
"We’ve insisted that our presidents and would-be presidents not only inspire but also divert us."
I've never insisted on any such thing. When did you start, Frank? I'd been coming to the NYT opinion pages all these years thinking substance was a shared value. Bummer.
"For years we’ve demanded that she show us something more raw, that she weep or bleed or chirp or quip, that a policy wonk isn’t enough..."
No we haven't. What we've demanded for years is that she stop lying about everything.
"We’ve insisted that our presidents and would-be presidents not only inspire but also divert us."
I've never insisted on any such thing. When did you start, Frank? I'd been coming to the NYT opinion pages all these years thinking substance was a shared value. Bummer.
2
300 plus million people in the United
States.
From the masses we distill to
Hillary vs. Trump.
Shameful. We are a lost people.
States.
From the masses we distill to
Hillary vs. Trump.
Shameful. We are a lost people.
3
Another in the endless line of Hillary-bashing on the NYTimes op-ed page where she can't seem to take a breath without being criticized. The worst is the psycho-babble that diagnoses her as somehow insufficiently authentic, excessively controlled, and entirely lacking in sparkle. The truth is that even NYTimes pundits get dazzled by candidates on whom they can project whatever qualities they like. Case in point, the 2008 version of Barack Obama. Who then picked up on his aversion to retail politics, his belief that rationality made persuasion unnecessary, his standoffishness toward allies and opponents alike, his tendency to bargain himself down before making his pitch? His lack of drama concealed some shortcomings that almost derailed his presidency. Yet he got a free pass from the press. Hillary can't get an even break.
7
I read the subtitle and am wondering does that even matter?
Are we picking this person apart to this level because she is female and that is what is done to females all the time?
Give her a break with all of these picayune criticisms.
Are we picking this person apart to this level because she is female and that is what is done to females all the time?
Give her a break with all of these picayune criticisms.
3
Hillary might be smarter than the NYT scene gives her credit for. It's easy to forget, but not all Democratic voters are "high-information" media consumers.
Not everyone has been watching her develop her persona for 20 years. Not everyone votes on the issues. Not everyone cares or notices when spontaneity is manufactured.
There is a large volume of uninformed, unattached potential support out there that will respond to vague social pressures, not specific arguments.
Now, before the serious campaigning begins, is the time to consolidate that "cultural allegiance" vote. The vaunted high-info voter will have to wait until her inevitable verbal showdown with Sanders.
Not everyone has been watching her develop her persona for 20 years. Not everyone votes on the issues. Not everyone cares or notices when spontaneity is manufactured.
There is a large volume of uninformed, unattached potential support out there that will respond to vague social pressures, not specific arguments.
Now, before the serious campaigning begins, is the time to consolidate that "cultural allegiance" vote. The vaunted high-info voter will have to wait until her inevitable verbal showdown with Sanders.
2
Mario Lopez then Lena Dunham. How many more tee-ball interviews must Hillary do before she actually answers questions related to policy, not pop culture?
Generation-WHY may be our future BUT many have yet to cross that metaphorical threshold between adolescence into adulthood.
Generation-WHY may be our future BUT many have yet to cross that metaphorical threshold between adolescence into adulthood.
3
When it comes to Hillary Clinton and the NY Times, she's damned if does, damned if she doesn't.
Thankfully most voters are aware of the Times' "Clinton issues" and treat most everything said with a very large grain of salt.
Thankfully most voters are aware of the Times' "Clinton issues" and treat most everything said with a very large grain of salt.
9
As a Democrat, unlike Republicans, I don't need bread and circuses. I don't care how well my chosen candidate campaigns, because my choice is not about campaigning, it's about competence and issues. HRC, for me, is the most qualified candidate on either side of the aisle; smart, tough, and has shown how she cares for the American people by her actions throughout her career. What a great opportunity we have to show the world yet another face of America, do not let it slip away.
9
"Yet another face." - How many makeovers has HRC had in the last 25-years?
___
“Part of the inhumanity of the computer is that, once that it is competently programmed and working smoothly, it is completely honest.”
- Isaac Asimov
___
“Part of the inhumanity of the computer is that, once that it is competently programmed and working smoothly, it is completely honest.”
- Isaac Asimov
Donald Trump isn't wildly defensive? Not controlling? Is there a GOP candidate who hasn't posed with Josh Duggar? DO you want a candidate who's smily, passive, and deferential? Would you prefer a lunatic , or a lying, pandering, milquetoast? Hillary does not pander. Allow her candidacy to evolve- it's to her credit that she listens to her constituency.
4
The way I see it is that the NYT's superficial coverage of the candidates is an example of how deeply they cover ALL topics.
Gawker, The Daily Kos, and the New York Times - Peas in a pod.
Gawker, The Daily Kos, and the New York Times - Peas in a pod.
2
Hillary is certainly the most accomplished liar of all the people running for president. She is the best at gaming the system, the best at lying, denying, misdirecting, and using half-truths to hide the lies, and has the worst judgment of any Democratic candidate (as evidenced by the mere fact that we are all talking about her emails and all she did to hide them). Hillary couldn't even tell the truth about her emails being deleted and the server being wiped clean. She certainly is the best at playing the victim and blaming everything on a vast right wing conspiracy (must have been the right wing conspiracy that set up a private server in her basement at home and forced her to use that server instead of the ready State Department email system). And Hillary voted for the Iraq war. Talk about judgment.
3
Hillary Clinton is just glitzy packaged goods that's put together by glib ad(wo)men and sleek marketing types. When you have to grasp the crutch of young but vapid celebrities to pull in the 20- and 30-something crowd and sell them "snake oil" (oops, promises of great days are going to be here again), you know she's anything but "authentic."
For HRC's campaign staffers and supporters, the thing to know and address are the real issues of her untrustworthiness and mendacity, poll-tested and packaged "positions," and most importantly, the sense of entitlement and her crowning as THE unchallenged Democratic nominee. Being a fabulist and a cunning linguist (like her husband's famous parsing of what "is" is) can win her the adulation of the impressionable young and uninformed, but to many informed voters, she'll always be the great pretender-in-chief seeking the office of the POTUS.
America needs to better than that.
For HRC's campaign staffers and supporters, the thing to know and address are the real issues of her untrustworthiness and mendacity, poll-tested and packaged "positions," and most importantly, the sense of entitlement and her crowning as THE unchallenged Democratic nominee. Being a fabulist and a cunning linguist (like her husband's famous parsing of what "is" is) can win her the adulation of the impressionable young and uninformed, but to many informed voters, she'll always be the great pretender-in-chief seeking the office of the POTUS.
America needs to better than that.
pomp and circumstance.
The burning burning issue is her deletion of 30,000 emails while under Congressional Scrutiny. the connected question of classified info is also relevant.
The burning burning issue is her deletion of 30,000 emails while under Congressional Scrutiny. the connected question of classified info is also relevant.
4
So, now Frank Bruni has jumped on the "let's bash Hillary" bandwagon because it's just makes him sound so hip and smart. Who gives a damn whether she is Miss Personality or not. Wouldn't it be nice if some columnists had the courage to stand up and acknowledge she's smart, experienced and rational and is more qualified to be President than all the Republican candidates put together.
8
I'm really sick and tired of the constant trashing of Hillary Clinton in the NY Times, by editorial writers and news writers, to the point of extreme falsity in reporting that barely gets a visible retraction. It's disgusting.
9
SOLUTION: Stop reading articles about HRC.
"There are no facts, only interpretations."
- Friedrich Nietzsche
"There are no facts, only interpretations."
- Friedrich Nietzsche
Mr. Bruni:
Please make up your mind. While saying Hillary Clinton is calculating and packaged you also say that she is the “the overwhelming favorite for the Democratic nomination. “ After the latest national polls show Clinton is slipping badly, only a very ardent Clinton supporter could write the latter phrase and mean it, especially the word “overwhelming.”
We have all despised politicians who say one thing when campaigning and then done another when in office. So how can you support someone you have already seen as “calculating,” over every other Democratic candidate? Is that all we can hope for - to elect, someone who says all the right things but we all know is “calculating” and packaged? Have you no hope for something better?
Please make up your mind. While saying Hillary Clinton is calculating and packaged you also say that she is the “the overwhelming favorite for the Democratic nomination. “ After the latest national polls show Clinton is slipping badly, only a very ardent Clinton supporter could write the latter phrase and mean it, especially the word “overwhelming.”
We have all despised politicians who say one thing when campaigning and then done another when in office. So how can you support someone you have already seen as “calculating,” over every other Democratic candidate? Is that all we can hope for - to elect, someone who says all the right things but we all know is “calculating” and packaged? Have you no hope for something better?
1
I am late coming to comments on this ridiculous column, but am cheered that so many readers have blasted Frank, from whom we expect better. I am looking for competence in our next president; charm and packaging are secondary. Actually, I think I'd really enjoy Hillary when she wasn't having to campaign - and I certainly respect her for putting up with this pundit nonsense and fake Republican attempts to smear her. I am grateful she is willing to work so hard for this country.
9
I agree with many comments here -- we shouldn't care how smooth and personable Hillary is, or whether she is stiff and makes awkward attempts to attempts to be spontaneous.
What I care about, what we all should care about, is whether she has the chops to make a good president. And the answer to that question is a resounding NO.
Her main qualifications are that she married and tolerated Bill and is female. Otherwise, there's not much there there on the achievement front.
Conversely, she has a history of scandal and has at least three questionable current situations. The e-mails obviously which at the very least shows her narcissism, her tendency to lie and distort and an inability to recognize and manage a crisis situation. The Clinton foundation is a bomb waiting to go off and Benghazi, despite democratic denials, is still troubling. Why the lies about the video? Why characterize the attacks as a spontaneous reaction to a video when the facts on the ground counter that position? Was it simply a political maneuver to give Obama cover as the election neared, or is there more?
So I really don't care if Hillary makes a fool of herself but I don't want her as president. She has no credibility or credentials.
What I care about, what we all should care about, is whether she has the chops to make a good president. And the answer to that question is a resounding NO.
Her main qualifications are that she married and tolerated Bill and is female. Otherwise, there's not much there there on the achievement front.
Conversely, she has a history of scandal and has at least three questionable current situations. The e-mails obviously which at the very least shows her narcissism, her tendency to lie and distort and an inability to recognize and manage a crisis situation. The Clinton foundation is a bomb waiting to go off and Benghazi, despite democratic denials, is still troubling. Why the lies about the video? Why characterize the attacks as a spontaneous reaction to a video when the facts on the ground counter that position? Was it simply a political maneuver to give Obama cover as the election neared, or is there more?
So I really don't care if Hillary makes a fool of herself but I don't want her as president. She has no credibility or credentials.
1
Bruni is making our esteemed New York Times a tabloid, with such vulgar captions on very inane story. Hope the Editors realize this, unless he is a"family member" per se!
3
I usually disagree with Bruni, but he is spot on here pretty much all around. What I can't get my head around is, even after all this, the Democrats refuse to field more candidates in the primary. The GOP can manage over 10. What are the Dems afraid of?
1
"Pajama party" has more than a whiff of sexism. If a male candidate were to be portrayed as an affable fellow in a forum with other men a gender-slighting pejorative would not be used against him.
3
Sorry Hilary, the time has come for a Biden-Warren ticket. Or for a little more geographic balance, a Biden-Klobuchar ticket. Either ticket will play well with the base, especially women. Either ticket should ensure capturing the same states and electoral votes Obama secured, especially in the Northeast, Midwest, and West. Replicating Obama's Blue State coalition is all the dems need to do to retain control of the White House. Come on Joe, the country is waiting for you...and this dream ticket.
I believe that Hillary is the best alternative around. However, I can not resist this pun: In modern politics the lighter you are, the higher you go. Our times may be known as the Era of Ballooning Politics.
1
Hillary is a political chameleon. If Sanders were on the conservative side and getting support, she would swing that way. I think she would be a competent president, but the baggage significantly impacts her electibility.
Best piece about Hillary Clinton anyone has ever written. I hope she reads it and learns from it.
In the end if in fact as it yet appears notwithstanding the wait for definitive word from the VP, she will be the candidate and the choice will be between her and one of the nutty Republicans.
That choice is easy if you are a Democrat, if you are an intelligent, aware independent, even if you are among the 5 percent of Republicans with knowledge and background.
At that point I won't just have to vote for Hillary Clinton, I will want to vote for her.
In the end if in fact as it yet appears notwithstanding the wait for definitive word from the VP, she will be the candidate and the choice will be between her and one of the nutty Republicans.
That choice is easy if you are a Democrat, if you are an intelligent, aware independent, even if you are among the 5 percent of Republicans with knowledge and background.
At that point I won't just have to vote for Hillary Clinton, I will want to vote for her.
1
Contrived is a word best fitting any Clinton.
If the Amendment forbidding Presidents to serve a 3d term went away tomorrow, we would almost surely see Bill Clinton run for President a 3d time.
After his record many would not vote for him again. If one would not vote for Bill, why on Earth does a vote for Hillary make any sense?
If the Amendment forbidding Presidents to serve a 3d term went away tomorrow, we would almost surely see Bill Clinton run for President a 3d time.
After his record many would not vote for him again. If one would not vote for Bill, why on Earth does a vote for Hillary make any sense?
2
Woodrow Wilson upon accepting the nomination for the Presidency was consistent with his philosophy that moral principles always trumped calculated political expediency. He believed that the electorate would ferret this out . Apparently we are not that different now then in 1912.
“In the last analysis, my fellow countrymen, as we in America would be the first to claim, a people are responsible for the acts of their government.”
- Woodrow Wilson (Columbus, Ohio, September 4th, 1919)
- Woodrow Wilson (Columbus, Ohio, September 4th, 1919)
2
I just want it on record that I cannot take 13 more months of this. Given how all the media is covering the upcoming election, I have to keep reminding myself that the election is next year and not this year. I cannot take four years of a Republican president but I also cannot take four more years of the Clintons. All Hillary has to acknowledge is that she is not a spontaneous person and that she makes several to-do lists before she is out of bed in the morning. I will be writing in Bernie's name come the next election - whether or not he is the candidate. For the time being, I just want it all to stop!
1
For a gay guy Frank Bruni is awfully sexist, and there in lies the rub. The reinvention stuff he blathers on about would never be in association with a man candidate now would it?
3
Hillary has no problem being "Genuine". Her genuine persona is one of a stuffy, conservative (personal not politics) smart, female in a male world.
People don't want that, they want to trade intelligence for bluster, bullying, smiles and jokes - hence the Donald.
She is trying to win a race that is stacked against her by idiots. I wopuld come out and say, this is who i am, i'm not a jokester, i'm not a small talker - I am the best and brightest candidate in this field of clowns, now go vote.
People don't want that, they want to trade intelligence for bluster, bullying, smiles and jokes - hence the Donald.
She is trying to win a race that is stacked against her by idiots. I wopuld come out and say, this is who i am, i'm not a jokester, i'm not a small talker - I am the best and brightest candidate in this field of clowns, now go vote.
3
I wonder how Carly Fiorina would look trying to connect to today's TV and pop stars, or doing a silly skit? I also know that Michelle Obama, who goes on TV talk shows and does silly skits regularly, and who is also a highly accomplished and serious professional, always looks just a little uncomfortable trying to be silly. She does pretty well but her seriousness and intensity are always there just under the surface when she gets back to talking about issues. Give Hillary a break. She IS only human and I'm voting for her because she's absolutely the most qualified person running with positions I like on the issues. No one else comes close. And it's time for a woman in the presidency and she's earned it, by God.
3
It demonstrates how low this country has fallen when a person who very well may be the next president of the United States hangs with the likes of Lena Dunham.
If you haven't watched her show "Girls," good luck getting through just about any episode without feeling a sense of total revulsion.
If you haven't watched her show "Girls," good luck getting through just about any episode without feeling a sense of total revulsion.
2
Great article Frank. Clinton is so contrived and packaged, that it is difficult to know what she really stands for. Bernie Sanders does not spend time constantly repackaging himself. The Democrats are risking a major disaster if Clinton is the nominee.
2
Get a life Frank.
The treacly smarm of right wing candidates with the bible thumping, flag waving, gun clutching folks is not just reported by the likes of you, but with your silence, tacitly endorsed. Let Hillary be alone. She has a constituency; and your mocking makes you look ridiculous.
Kalidan
The treacly smarm of right wing candidates with the bible thumping, flag waving, gun clutching folks is not just reported by the likes of you, but with your silence, tacitly endorsed. Let Hillary be alone. She has a constituency; and your mocking makes you look ridiculous.
Kalidan
3
Let them eat cake! Hilary! is perfect.
1
Let's face it. If Hillary loves the US as much as she'd like you to believe, she'd put all her efforts behind Bernie Sanders. African-American voters don't know him very well and understand little about how his vision would help them (all the rest of us too). She should use her celebrity to bridge that gap and deliver an extension to the progress we've made under Obama. There is more to be done.
Quit fighting for yourself, Mrs. Clinton, and start fighting for us. Please.
Quit fighting for yourself, Mrs. Clinton, and start fighting for us. Please.
2
You know what? I love Hillary and will support her no matter what. I think more criticism needs to be heaped at those nuts on the Republican side. Carly Fiorina -- really -- and Donald Trump? Our country is in real trouble if this is the best the Republicans can do. No one has common sense anymore and they don't care what people really need or want. It's all about them! You go Hillary!
2
Could you imagine if a male presidential candidate made a comment about a woman's "stuff"???. The conversation about Mr. Lenny Kravitz's "stuff" was in inappropriate at best and the sign of a campaign mired in desperation.
For all her faults, Ms. Clinton is a better campaigner than stooping to such last ditch efforts to win over a niche audience.
For all her faults, Ms. Clinton is a better campaigner than stooping to such last ditch efforts to win over a niche audience.
What does this tell us? Hillary's smart and desperate to serve her ego to become president. So far it seems she's the strongest possibility for the Democrats. Why is she the strongest possibility -- is it because of money, because money dictates and she's got the most funding? Are we voters going to let that and the media attention that amounts to marketing tell us who can win and therefore whom we should vote for?
Hillary, despite her big-money backing, may fear that GOP opponents can match her funding, and so she's making a fool of herself by doing such as this meeting with Lena Dunham.
Hillary, despite her big-money backing, may fear that GOP opponents can match her funding, and so she's making a fool of herself by doing such as this meeting with Lena Dunham.
during bill's first run they were appearing about an hour away from my house. so, my kid and I drove over. we stood for hours as they were late- we watched and cheered. then, most people left- but we found the bus and stood along the roadway, after dark in a nice country town in the middle of Ohio, the summer sun down and the trees even settling down for night. we just stood waiting to cheer the bus on. Then-Hillary came out of the bus- no visible security, no other folks, just Hillary. She walked across the country road to about four feet from where we were standing, made al little bow to us and thanked us for coming and staying to see the bus off. She was sincere. She took time to get off the comfy bus and come out to say thank you to a sparse crowd who was already gonna vote for her husband. I wish she could find that moment in her mind and capture it for the millions who are watching her now.
4
It is simple. For Clinton it is what can I do to put me in the White House. For Sanders it is what can I do for the American people and my country. Wake up people and the same for you NYT.
2
Do Hillary's handlers actually believe that that this bogus makeover is going to change voters' perceptions about who and what Hillary Clinton actually is? You can put lipstick on a pig...but underneath, despite the designer label, it (or she) is still what she has always been, and always be, a liar.
1
She'll win the nomination and the Presidency.and the pundits who belittle her will have to wake up and face reality however much contempt they have for her and, I suspect, women in general. Stop the sneering and treat her like the experienced, knowledgable person she is, not that woman at work you dislike who is getting promoted because she's more qualified than you.
3
When will the New York Times reflect on the fact that it gives way too much ink to Mrs. Clinton (who seems to be a hollowed-out version of herself, due to so much pandering....as Mitt Romney ended up being) and cover, with depth and seriousness, the real candidate in the race, Bernie Sanders?
3
Sanders is not a bag-money liberal, the the nut likes. Mind you, I'll vote for Hillary or Joe ion preference to any of the Republican alternatives, but Sanders strikes as the best of anyone.
I challenge anyone to live under the constant, and constantly critical, spotlight HRC has been subjected to for decades. No other candidate, perhaps in the history of the nation, has withstood the level of scrutiny HRC has and stayed in the game. She'll have my vote. Liberated by victory she'll prove supporters right and convert doubters in the middle (forget the far right, they're beyond hope), as America surges toward a more progressive and inclusive future.
7
"If I were two-faced, would I be wearing this one?"
- Abraham Lincoln
- Abraham Lincoln
OK, I'm an old grouch, but all I want to hear from Hillary is what she promises to attempt when she is president. How will she benefit the population of the U.S. What she hopes to change besides Wall Street. And so on.
I do not need to watch her joke about falling trousers. And so on.
I do not need to watch her joke about falling trousers. And so on.
5
Oh for god's sake you are so picky, picky wanting Hillary to be all things to all people when this years whole election scenario is so far a giant JOKE. How can any candidate assume the mantel of elder statesman when the lunatics have left the asylum. Perhaps Hillary can settle down to your view of how she should be when the Republicans have finished with the Clown Car Act.
6
The clown car is inhabited by the party of "free"! Time for the adults.
Hillary, should just be who she is, smart and boring---and that is ok with me in this campaign cycle.
5
There is nothing real about Hillary Clinton except her naked desire to become the first woman President, it has been such a depressing campaign that even if one wants to vote Democratic, one does it with a certain disgust, because Hillary is the front runner... Run, Biden, run...
What is happening to this country? On the Republican side, they all appear to be wooden and not entirely sane.... sad choices
What is happening to this country? On the Republican side, they all appear to be wooden and not entirely sane.... sad choices
1
If this is what Hillary wants us to remember about her, rather than the emails, it's failing. Even Mr. Bruni is uncomfortable with this turn to fluff for her campaign.
She needs to get it together and start talking about policy. She's not going to be elected because she gives voters a nice, warm feeling. She will be elected based on her record, credentials, and ability to engage with voters on things that matter to them. If she continues to talk about policy for support for illegal aliens and college student debt relief, she will not win.
So far - she's not doing too good and talking to Lena Dunham or going on Ellen isn't helping it at all. It's early and anything can happen but the damage with the email scandal and other fatigue with reading about Hillary's bad decisions are what voters remember, not her strengths, at this point.
She needs to get it together and start talking about policy. She's not going to be elected because she gives voters a nice, warm feeling. She will be elected based on her record, credentials, and ability to engage with voters on things that matter to them. If she continues to talk about policy for support for illegal aliens and college student debt relief, she will not win.
So far - she's not doing too good and talking to Lena Dunham or going on Ellen isn't helping it at all. It's early and anything can happen but the damage with the email scandal and other fatigue with reading about Hillary's bad decisions are what voters remember, not her strengths, at this point.
1
A while back there was a TV interview with potential NH voters where the folks were cooing about how they would "feel comfortable" having Donald Trump over for a picnic. Well I remember the last time we voted in someone who was described that way -- George Bush, 2nd over Al Gore and look what we got. Personally I don't want to be "comfortable" with the President of the United States. I want to be overwhelmed by their smarts and feel safe that the MOST competent person is at the helm . Mrs. Clinton is THAT candidate. A shame that the NYT and other media focus on the faux email scandal they helped create instead of her brilliant resume and service to our Country. And Mrs. Clinton is someone who would make appropriate appointments to the Supreme Court - and someone who can get elected. That's something we can all get "enthusiastic" about!
2
Note to Dunham: The generation that you pretend to represent is for Bernie
2
I blame you. Stop watching Ellen, and do some journalism - educate us about our candidates. This is superficial and almost stupid.
9
Pajama party -- could you be more sexist?
4
Having never seen "Girls" because I lived in Williamsburg for 17 years and really don't relate to trust-fund kids, I thought Hillary did a great job in the interview. She was really funny when she did an interview by Jimmy Falon as Trump after the Republican debate (I just saw the clip so not sure if the interview was before or after).
At least Bruni didn't write "Beach Blanket Bingo." We've come a long way, baby. I think not.
At least Bruni didn't write "Beach Blanket Bingo." We've come a long way, baby. I think not.
Hillary Clinton is one strong, determined, energetic and smart woman. I get the feeling that some people just don't know how to respond to that.
Maybe it would be easier for them if she were more like some ditzy character on a TV sitcom or a reality show. But we really don't need that in our president.
Maybe it would be easier for them if she were more like some ditzy character on a TV sitcom or a reality show. But we really don't need that in our president.
3
Once again is losing sight of the wood for the superficial little trees. This country needs someone intelligent and educated, with experience domestically and internationally. Someone whom, by their demonstrated, not promised actions, has worked hard for our country and has a vision of there we ought to be. Hilary is not the late-night show host of politics, nor will she ever be. She has solid substance, if not humor, but so what? Is singing kumbaya and screaming holy indignation prerequisites for being an effective president. Come on, America, don't be so shallow and pandering. The president is not chosen to entertain us, but to govern and lead with sanity and courage. Hilary is not someone I'd invite to a hen party, but I'd sure as heck like to have a drink with her and pick her brain on so many topics. I'm sure I'd come away the better, and so will our country if she is elected President.
2
Sad to see anyone with her CV continue to grovel.
Instagram with Kim K.
Comedy sketches with Jimmy Fallon ( very clever).
Now this.
All pitifully contrived in a weak attempt to make her hip.
All comes down to one question.
Is she trustworthy?
Start off with some honesty about the emails.
Some disclosure about your foundation(s).
Too many questions of character, integrity, and greed.
Sanders looks better and better.
Instagram with Kim K.
Comedy sketches with Jimmy Fallon ( very clever).
Now this.
All pitifully contrived in a weak attempt to make her hip.
All comes down to one question.
Is she trustworthy?
Start off with some honesty about the emails.
Some disclosure about your foundation(s).
Too many questions of character, integrity, and greed.
Sanders looks better and better.
2
Whatever...it's actually kinda funny.
Why does the Times have Frank Bruni as an Op Ed columnist when they already have one, shrill gossip columnist named Maureen Dowd? I really think having two people writing really bad columns about totally banal topics when there are so many more important things to write about only dumbs down the conversation.
6
The fact that once again the campaign has had to trot the big dog out while still in the nominating process should tell you all you need to know about Hillary, some people are good on the stump some are not, her advisers know that she struggles to reach people with her speeches, they also know that if she loses Iowa and New Hampshire, South Carolina is do or die, and once again come super Tuesday, it could be all over. We are looking at one candidate with a strong resonating message, and another with a name, and once again the 18-30 vote will determine her fate, they only had one trick left in their bag and with 13 months to go before the election they have to use it. Turn out the lights the pajama party's over
1
I love President Obama, especially the Lame Duck President Obama. I like Secretary Clinton. I was torn, as I was never torn, about who to vote for in the 2008 primary. But I am pretty sure that If we had elected President Hillary Clinton, Republicans would have been much, much more reluctant to set their course on adolescent obstructiveness. Would Mitch McConnell have dared to declare his single mission to make Hillary Clinton a one-term President?
Why don't we quit the ridiculous hand-wringing about her attempts to soften her image and leave behind snarky "Power Point" images. I want a President with intelligence and steely determination. Remember that George Bush was favorably viewed kind of guy you could have a beer with. We have two Democratic candidates of substance and gravitas, Clinton and Sanders. I suspect in the primary, I will be as torn and I was in 2008.
The very idea that any one of the Republican candidates, a group of radical right wing malcontents, is blood curdling. Don't we remember where radical right wing malcontents have taken their countries and the world? I'll give you a hint: Let's round up all the people responsible for all our problems and deport them. We'll figure out the Final Solution later.
So forget Clinton's likability and Trump's hair and talk about real issues.Or then let's get going other issues like Huckabee's weight problems.
So, dear Third Estate, please contemplate your role in the disastrous and toxic state of American politics.
Why don't we quit the ridiculous hand-wringing about her attempts to soften her image and leave behind snarky "Power Point" images. I want a President with intelligence and steely determination. Remember that George Bush was favorably viewed kind of guy you could have a beer with. We have two Democratic candidates of substance and gravitas, Clinton and Sanders. I suspect in the primary, I will be as torn and I was in 2008.
The very idea that any one of the Republican candidates, a group of radical right wing malcontents, is blood curdling. Don't we remember where radical right wing malcontents have taken their countries and the world? I'll give you a hint: Let's round up all the people responsible for all our problems and deport them. We'll figure out the Final Solution later.
So forget Clinton's likability and Trump's hair and talk about real issues.Or then let's get going other issues like Huckabee's weight problems.
So, dear Third Estate, please contemplate your role in the disastrous and toxic state of American politics.
3
"I’ve lost count of which version we’re on."
I've lost count of GOP puerile attacks. There's mostly name calling, imagined scandals, and sneering.
Memo to GOP: whether Mrs. Clinton is the Democratic nominee or not, I would prefer any Democrat near the nuclear trigger or picking Supreme Court judges.
I've lost count of GOP puerile attacks. There's mostly name calling, imagined scandals, and sneering.
Memo to GOP: whether Mrs. Clinton is the Democratic nominee or not, I would prefer any Democrat near the nuclear trigger or picking Supreme Court judges.
1
Ok we get it. We don't need a Hillary Sucks article from you every week. If you were a dinner guest i wouldn't invite you over again until you find something new to discuss.
2
I don't care one whit about the personality of any Presidential candidate.
The only two important questions are these:
If the Democratic candidate wins (whomever that might be), what would they do while in office?
If the Republican candidate wins (whomever that might be), what would they do while in office?
The rest of it (including OpEds like this one) is just fluff.
The only two important questions are these:
If the Democratic candidate wins (whomever that might be), what would they do while in office?
If the Republican candidate wins (whomever that might be), what would they do while in office?
The rest of it (including OpEds like this one) is just fluff.
1
The problem that Clinton faces is that her husband was president. For all her intellect, smarts, savvy etc. She will be seen by most people as Bill Clinton's wife. As a woman who made it on her own, she didn't. She was the wife of a popular president. Would she have won a Senate seat on her own merits in NY ? Maybe yes maybe no. Then Secretary of State and the first presidential bid. Would we have heard about Hillary Clinton without Bill ? They are joined at the hip, and she is NOT a woman who made it on her own. That's the big issue with her campaign. It is ingenuous, therefore we get the "new" Hillary, the kind Hillary, the fun Hillary. What we really have is the Hillary who was willing to put up with a blatant philandering husband in order to gain political office and power.
It is hard to support someone for President that has chased the office so hard for so long and feels that we need to elect her because it is "her turn".
Does anyone else have a problem with the Clinton's using politics as a family business? Does anyone else see conflicts with running the Clinton Foundation/Global initiative along side with being a public servant and running for office? Does anyone else see a problem with getting rich essentially through speeches and offering "access"? Does anyone else have concerns about Bill Clinton being back pulling levers behind the curtain? Does anyone really believe that Bill Clinton would function as First Ladies have in the past? Is anyone else curious concerning how the Clinton Foundation would function is Hillary were President? Would Bill Clinton claim to step away? Would Chelsea Clinton really be at arms length? Would the Foundation gain true "access"?
Too much baggage. Feel the "Bern".
Does anyone else have a problem with the Clinton's using politics as a family business? Does anyone else see conflicts with running the Clinton Foundation/Global initiative along side with being a public servant and running for office? Does anyone else see a problem with getting rich essentially through speeches and offering "access"? Does anyone else have concerns about Bill Clinton being back pulling levers behind the curtain? Does anyone really believe that Bill Clinton would function as First Ladies have in the past? Is anyone else curious concerning how the Clinton Foundation would function is Hillary were President? Would Bill Clinton claim to step away? Would Chelsea Clinton really be at arms length? Would the Foundation gain true "access"?
Too much baggage. Feel the "Bern".
Especially in this age of identity politics, voters want their candidates to have a clear identity, sense of self, be at ease with who they are--or at least be able to convey a cohesive identity. Bernie Sanders & Elizabeth Warren are the real deal.
Hillary Clinton is smart, experienced, and I heard from someone who knows her, she has a great sense of humor. But like Al Gore, she seems too eager to win, to be viewed as popular (like her husband?), and not make mistakes publicly. Maybe she has too many PR consultants who she listens to. Sadly, she comes across as manufactured pressed wood.
In today's NYT article about Teddy Kennedy, Robert Dole said about Senator Kennedy: “It’s not a job for Kennedy... it’s public service.” Hillary comes across as one of those hard-working students, determined to get As, who misses the moment in being able to enjoy herself, like herself and what she is doing. She finds out what people want, then tries to give it to them, with lots of coaching and advice from her PR experts.
But as Hillary's e-mail-gate shows, she allows herself to get bogged down with things that are really not that important and to be deflected from her message and what she has to offer. She should be less forced on image and more focused on public service and what needs to be done.
But I will vote for pressed wood over rotten wood any day!
Hillary Clinton is smart, experienced, and I heard from someone who knows her, she has a great sense of humor. But like Al Gore, she seems too eager to win, to be viewed as popular (like her husband?), and not make mistakes publicly. Maybe she has too many PR consultants who she listens to. Sadly, she comes across as manufactured pressed wood.
In today's NYT article about Teddy Kennedy, Robert Dole said about Senator Kennedy: “It’s not a job for Kennedy... it’s public service.” Hillary comes across as one of those hard-working students, determined to get As, who misses the moment in being able to enjoy herself, like herself and what she is doing. She finds out what people want, then tries to give it to them, with lots of coaching and advice from her PR experts.
But as Hillary's e-mail-gate shows, she allows herself to get bogged down with things that are really not that important and to be deflected from her message and what she has to offer. She should be less forced on image and more focused on public service and what needs to be done.
But I will vote for pressed wood over rotten wood any day!
1
Okay, Frank. We get it already; you and Maureen don't like Hillary.
But would you rather Donald as President.
Hillary may not be warm and fuzzy to you, but she is highly competent, dedicated, knowledgeable, and intelligent----without any peer in the slate of Presidential aspirants.
I am voting for Hillary.
But would you rather Donald as President.
Hillary may not be warm and fuzzy to you, but she is highly competent, dedicated, knowledgeable, and intelligent----without any peer in the slate of Presidential aspirants.
I am voting for Hillary.
3
In a newspaper whose "leadership" consists largely of smug women and men with parochial Upper West Side views of the world, Frank Bruni, the gay Italian American whose world-view was shaped not least by some years spent working in Detroit, is an absolute treasure. Hands up if you think that he should replace Dean Baquet immediately!
It's interesting to note that those who defend Hillary in these Comments do so in her style: vitriolic, nasty, if not to say b*tchy rather in the same way she pursued and still pursues Assange for calling her out.
Some seem impressed because she got the SOS title. On her watch all of the Middle East (not already lit by Cheney and the idiots around him) went up in flames. She meets with one of the world's bad guys in Saudi Arabia and discusses driver's licenses for women. She and Vicki Nuland set up the Ukraine and Syria. She flies a million miles at God knows what expense for her and the whole entourage - for photo ops with important people, but can't point to one diplomatic win. Brilliant SOS? Where?
Hillary may have a reasonable IQ, but being President of the United States in times like these requires common sense and a broad range of knowledge and understanding. She intimately knows women's issues and LGBT issues, because that's where she is, but if we are to transform from a male dominant society to a mix, her one-string, female fiddle is dramatically lacking. Trump has as many good talking points as Hillary, but in a totally different package. No world leader, except maybe Cameron, takes either of them seriously.
If her gender friend Wasserman Schultz makes her the best Democrats can do instead of Sanders, I'll abstain.
Some seem impressed because she got the SOS title. On her watch all of the Middle East (not already lit by Cheney and the idiots around him) went up in flames. She meets with one of the world's bad guys in Saudi Arabia and discusses driver's licenses for women. She and Vicki Nuland set up the Ukraine and Syria. She flies a million miles at God knows what expense for her and the whole entourage - for photo ops with important people, but can't point to one diplomatic win. Brilliant SOS? Where?
Hillary may have a reasonable IQ, but being President of the United States in times like these requires common sense and a broad range of knowledge and understanding. She intimately knows women's issues and LGBT issues, because that's where she is, but if we are to transform from a male dominant society to a mix, her one-string, female fiddle is dramatically lacking. Trump has as many good talking points as Hillary, but in a totally different package. No world leader, except maybe Cameron, takes either of them seriously.
If her gender friend Wasserman Schultz makes her the best Democrats can do instead of Sanders, I'll abstain.
"She remains the overwhelming favorite for the Democratic nomination."
Heaven help us all. The population of the United States is 320 million people, and the best we can come up with is a retread with no real accomplishments and multiple flip-flops on policy.
Heaven help us all. The population of the United States is 320 million people, and the best we can come up with is a retread with no real accomplishments and multiple flip-flops on policy.
1
What applies to Hillary must apply to Carley. There cannot be a a double standard. Hillary is one of the most slandered and lied about women in America. So called scandal after scandal turn out to be fake. She is said to be ambitious when anyone running for president or any high office must be ambitious and somehow the sins of Bill are attributed to her. Look at the people running on the Republican side. These people are hardly a laugh a minute. In fact they appear to be totally humorless and they lie with impunity and make up their own facts.
Hillary is a highly intelligent and knowledgeable person who knows all the foreign leaders and how government works and is dedicated to a mainstream program of governance rather than pledges on the GOP side to render government unable to make people’s lives better, safer and more secure.
She does not offer pie in the sky as the Republicans do with a straight face. So why is Hillary required to be one of the girls and weep in public over some life experience. There are a lot of people who hate Hillary because she is a woman, a Democrat, married to Bill, too damn smart for her own good and all those faux scandals. This is part of her bagage as being owned lock stock and barrel by billionares or being a billionaire will be a part of the Republican candidate’s baggage.
Hillary is a highly intelligent and knowledgeable person who knows all the foreign leaders and how government works and is dedicated to a mainstream program of governance rather than pledges on the GOP side to render government unable to make people’s lives better, safer and more secure.
She does not offer pie in the sky as the Republicans do with a straight face. So why is Hillary required to be one of the girls and weep in public over some life experience. There are a lot of people who hate Hillary because she is a woman, a Democrat, married to Bill, too damn smart for her own good and all those faux scandals. This is part of her bagage as being owned lock stock and barrel by billionares or being a billionaire will be a part of the Republican candidate’s baggage.
2
Hillary Clinton's political problem is not that she's stiff or charmless or occasionally pathetic in her efforts to prove she's not. It's not using her personal emails when she should have used a more secure system. It's what she stands for and how disingenuous she is about it. She's supported (and still supports) Bush-era foreign and domestic policy down the line. She's a zealous advocate of the "free trade" agreements that has been ruinous to our environment and our standard of living. She's been in the employ of both Monsanto and Walmart. She DOESN'T stand for those things that make more and more Democrats embrace Bernie Sanders every day: taxing the super rich fairly to improve our infrastructure and create jobs in green energy and elsewhere, free college education and student loan forgiveness for all, medicare for all, diplomacy over endless costly illegal war, and prosecution of corporate and banking criminals..
1
"I blame us in part. For years we’ve demanded that she show us something more raw, that she weep or bleed or chirp or quip, that a policy wonk isn’t enough, that a résumé is only the start."
Once again Mr. Bruni nails it. The Republican circus is the fault of the electorate as well. When such a large part of the potential electorate is apathetic to the point of non-participation, all you get is circuses owing to the perception that mis-informed voters are better than no voters.
Once again Mr. Bruni nails it. The Republican circus is the fault of the electorate as well. When such a large part of the potential electorate is apathetic to the point of non-participation, all you get is circuses owing to the perception that mis-informed voters are better than no voters.
It is always informative to watch a waste of human flesh garner attention from humans even dumber than they are.
Death, destruction, criminal intent greed and corruption follow in the wake of the Clinton's and their supporters, like a modern day incarnation of typhoid Mary.
I understand trying to prop up this excuse for a human being is a full time job for Democrats when the sympathy vote goes to Biden and the Socialist Stupidity vote goes to Bernie and the fake Native American vote has to wait for Elizabeth but for the sake of the country don't try to justify this pond scum any more then you have to or the US public may finally turn on you.
Death, destruction, criminal intent greed and corruption follow in the wake of the Clinton's and their supporters, like a modern day incarnation of typhoid Mary.
I understand trying to prop up this excuse for a human being is a full time job for Democrats when the sympathy vote goes to Biden and the Socialist Stupidity vote goes to Bernie and the fake Native American vote has to wait for Elizabeth but for the sake of the country don't try to justify this pond scum any more then you have to or the US public may finally turn on you.
It appears that Bruni has taken a page out of Maureen Dowd's book on Irrelevant Political Commentary.
6
Hillary has been a global public figure for almost 25 years and her constant attempted to reintroduce herself have become tiresome. The interview with Lena is just embarrassing and if the purpose was get young people to support her, she needs a completely new set of advisers.
1
I recently attended a Town Hall meeting with Hillary in Concord. She was extremely personable, poised but not stiff, friendly and non-threatening. Her acute intelligence and compassion were unmistakable. How can more of the general public see this side of her?
4
I disagree with almost everything in this column. The comedy routine is making alot of nothing. And she is working very hard campaigning while answering the same stupid ( at this point ) questions about Emails and Bengazi. Mrs Clinton is not taking anything for granted. They are worried about Bernie Sanders, and they should be. They also are concerned about Joe Biden getting in because he would mainly take her votes. I see someone who has handled herself well under pressure and someone the Republicans are very scared to run against in a two person presidential election. She would wipe the floor against any of them at this point. But there's a debate coming up with Bernie and it's going to get tougher for her. It's kind of a drag for someone like me because I have to vote for Bernie Sanders in the primary, but I think she would make a good president. I would have no problem as it stands voting for her.
2
High praise for her tenure at the State Department. She racked up the miles. Wow!
I do not like the Republican field. They, and the current expression of their party, are repugnant. But I will not vote the Clintonistas back into the Power Oval, either. For the very simple reason that I do not feel they "have my back." Unless it serves their interests. This is the root, the heart, of their problem (for me). And I'm leaving aside the fact that the couple is duplicitous to a fault.
John~
American Net'Zen
John~
American Net'Zen
Dear Mr. Bruni,
Maybe, just maybe, we are all sick and tired of reading, hearing and seeing Ms. Clinton these last three years!
Her game of "running, not running, shucks, I don't know" became part of her 'persona' if she ever had one. Apparently her comment "If I want to knock a story off the front page, I just change my hairstyle" has become worn out and she finds herself struggling against what she willingly created and the public is, perhaps, just a little tired of seeing her projected as THE candidate 24/7/365.
But we are talking about 'polls' here as if they were an actual 'election'.
I guess the bottom line is even at her worst, she may just be better than ALL of the GOP/TP/KOCH AFFILIATE's bunch of 'men/one woman who would be president'. One thing that hasn't changed for the voting public; we seem to have the choice of the 'lesser of two evils' once more.
Maybe, just maybe, we are all sick and tired of reading, hearing and seeing Ms. Clinton these last three years!
Her game of "running, not running, shucks, I don't know" became part of her 'persona' if she ever had one. Apparently her comment "If I want to knock a story off the front page, I just change my hairstyle" has become worn out and she finds herself struggling against what she willingly created and the public is, perhaps, just a little tired of seeing her projected as THE candidate 24/7/365.
But we are talking about 'polls' here as if they were an actual 'election'.
I guess the bottom line is even at her worst, she may just be better than ALL of the GOP/TP/KOCH AFFILIATE's bunch of 'men/one woman who would be president'. One thing that hasn't changed for the voting public; we seem to have the choice of the 'lesser of two evils' once more.
Remember that she's also a Yankees fan.
1
Like Tony Soprano said, she gets a pass for that.
She's a die-hard Cubs fan while in the Chicago suburbs. Loves the White Sox on Michigan Ave. And speaking of Michigan, did you catch that Tigers game?
No to Clinton. She is a puppet for the BIG MONEY.
2
Hillary doesn't need to be hip. She needs to stop being invisible. If the Republicans weren't hounding her, I don't think we'd hear about her at all.
1
I can tell you why there have been no Democrat debates thus far. It's because Wasserman-Schultz and Bill Clinton realize that in any debate with Bernie Sanders, she is going to come across as the calculating wooden person she is. She simply is not a natural, the way her husband and Barack Obama were and are. She has much more to lose than to gain from any debate with Bernie. And this is not merely a matter of personality endowment. It is also a matter of substance. In her typically triangulating custom, she supported the Iraq invasion as, of course, did GWBush, Cheney, et al. She ,Bill (who covets the limelight), and Debbie want to keep her front and center as the only alternative we have to the Republican mediocrities. You may be sure that any debate exposure she has will be minimal.
Finally, an accurate unemotional assessment on here.
Cut her some slack, Frank! There's been a vast conspiracy out there to make her look wooden, uncaring, whining and uncaring.
If you show up on Ellen and claim you're looking the "stuff that fell out of his pants," you've got to be desparate for something you will never have: real leadership. No PJ Party will ever change that.
If you show up on Ellen and claim you're looking the "stuff that fell out of his pants," you've got to be desparate for something you will never have: real leadership. No PJ Party will ever change that.
2
Hillary Clinton is being pressed into stepping out of her nature, and join the 'Anything-Goes Political Club' in the presidential elections. It won't wash with this American supporter of hers, and It comes as no surprise that having 'a sense of humor' appears to be a top priority in this rooster of candidates.
A contemporary of this politician, 'Does she have a sense of humor?', I remember my parent born in New York used to dine off this question asked by U.S. colleges when I applied for higher education, and she thought it was highly amusing.
Clinton is tough, but fair and does not play games. She is concerned about the future of America and her vision remains clear. This is not the time to eat cake and wear party hats. Brilliant, short of a genius, she is emotional and vulnerable, and the first to give herself a hard time if she feels that she has not brought her best to the table.
But a great majority of us have a need to be continuously entertained and diverted in some way, while this is not a Hollywood show, but a free choice we still have in electing the next leader of America.
Hillary Clinton is far more real and substantial, measured and experienced than the other candidates on offer, and I am not about to fool around anymore in wasting time with these shows.
Keep on truckin' Mrs. Clinton. We know you are not a fool, while some of us may sound unhinged, keep going in the right direction. Remain contained. You will give us a sense of reality.
A contemporary of this politician, 'Does she have a sense of humor?', I remember my parent born in New York used to dine off this question asked by U.S. colleges when I applied for higher education, and she thought it was highly amusing.
Clinton is tough, but fair and does not play games. She is concerned about the future of America and her vision remains clear. This is not the time to eat cake and wear party hats. Brilliant, short of a genius, she is emotional and vulnerable, and the first to give herself a hard time if she feels that she has not brought her best to the table.
But a great majority of us have a need to be continuously entertained and diverted in some way, while this is not a Hollywood show, but a free choice we still have in electing the next leader of America.
Hillary Clinton is far more real and substantial, measured and experienced than the other candidates on offer, and I am not about to fool around anymore in wasting time with these shows.
Keep on truckin' Mrs. Clinton. We know you are not a fool, while some of us may sound unhinged, keep going in the right direction. Remain contained. You will give us a sense of reality.
4
Another totally slanted hit piece on a great woman. All three generations in my family will be voting for the lady come November of 2016. Do let us know should the NYT decide to join the 21st century instead of dredging up red herrings from GOP sewage dump.
6
Stop writing this tripe. I don't care whether Clinton's spontaneity seems to you to be labored or orange with purple stripes. I care about her positions on the issues, her plans for the country, and whether those positions and plans make sense. Try writing about that.
5
"I blame us in part." Not really. The truth is the media is totally to blame. The electorate doesn't choose to focus on the nonsense; the media chooses to serves us nonsense.
The electorate doesn't sit around critiquing a candidate's spontaneity--the media does. The electorate doesn't want non-stop coverage of the silly squabbling and character aspersions tossed between the candidates--the media does. The electorate isn't mesmerized by the political witch-hunts run by Republicans--the media is.
Mr. Bruni, it is understandable that you must write about subjects that capture reader interest, but you don't have to attempt to generate reader interest in non-issues which serves no one but a field of crazy Republicans.
Instead of a banal "story" about reintroducing Hillary, why not focus on how she compares to Jeb?'. For example, his recent condescending pandering to blacks versus Hillary's genuine working relationship with the black community. Instead of critiquing her spontaneity, why not compare Hillary's policy proposals to any of the Republican candidates? Take for example, refinancing college debt and making college more affordable.
Finally, if you really want to generate some reader interest take the media to task for its utter failure to give us real news and analyses. FOX has led the way but all media outlets have stooped to the FOX standard of tabloid journalism.
The electorate doesn't sit around critiquing a candidate's spontaneity--the media does. The electorate doesn't want non-stop coverage of the silly squabbling and character aspersions tossed between the candidates--the media does. The electorate isn't mesmerized by the political witch-hunts run by Republicans--the media is.
Mr. Bruni, it is understandable that you must write about subjects that capture reader interest, but you don't have to attempt to generate reader interest in non-issues which serves no one but a field of crazy Republicans.
Instead of a banal "story" about reintroducing Hillary, why not focus on how she compares to Jeb?'. For example, his recent condescending pandering to blacks versus Hillary's genuine working relationship with the black community. Instead of critiquing her spontaneity, why not compare Hillary's policy proposals to any of the Republican candidates? Take for example, refinancing college debt and making college more affordable.
Finally, if you really want to generate some reader interest take the media to task for its utter failure to give us real news and analyses. FOX has led the way but all media outlets have stooped to the FOX standard of tabloid journalism.
4
Hillary Clinton's problems are not that she's a woman running for President; on the face of it, she is extremely qualified. Her problem is not her personality; we have had plenty of caustic and acerbic politicians. Her problem is not her policies; she has a large group that espouses the same ideals and beliefs. Ms. Clinton's problem is simple; she is seen as dishonest. If she had not had the email problem, she would have blown the field (both parties) away. This is a self-inflicted wound, and not the cause of some conspiracy, the media, or any other source.
5
Bernie! Bernie! Bernie!
And Clintons ....get off the stage!!
And Clintons ....get off the stage!!
3
Blah blah blah. Only a woman candidate would get this kind of analysis. Serious journalism has now been replaced with the print version of reality TV.
5
I don't expect politicians to be perfect, just knowledgeable, competent, common sense, willing to fight for what is right. Hillary is spectacular in this regard. The ridiculous things the public makes the candidates do during campaign season are irrelevant. Her ability to lead readiness for the job are clearly present.
All these columns parsing every syllable are tiresome. it's campaign season. What are her plans for the country, that is what's important.
All these columns parsing every syllable are tiresome. it's campaign season. What are her plans for the country, that is what's important.
3
This article really bothers me. Hillary Clinton was Secretary of State and has more foreign policy knowledge than any of the candidates currently running. Why are you not talking about that? She has issues that I'm not crazy about, but she still stands taller and more dignified and more SANE than any of the other candidates. I care not one iota about Lena Dunham, penises, or how spontaneous or charming Hillary Clinton is. (And really, maybe Lena Dunham could have raised her bar a little too -- or would that have been too feminist for her?) What I care about is our country dropping its collective ignorance and electing someone who isn't going to return us to war, destroy the middle class, or eliminate healthcare, specifically women's healthcare. Sorry to be contrary, but I'm far less concerned about men's penises than I am about women's vaginas.
4
"she still stands taller and more dignified and more SANE than any of the other candidates." You mean the Republican candidates?
Bernie Sanders & Martin O'Malley are also good. Sanders is still older & he may not win the general election. O'Malley is pretty good. He can win the general election too. He would be a good choice as VP candidate. Hope both Clinton & Sanders would jointly negotiate with him to be their running mate if either wins the nomination. I would be very happy and relieved if that happens.
Bernie Sanders & Martin O'Malley are also good. Sanders is still older & he may not win the general election. O'Malley is pretty good. He can win the general election too. He would be a good choice as VP candidate. Hope both Clinton & Sanders would jointly negotiate with him to be their running mate if either wins the nomination. I would be very happy and relieved if that happens.
I swear I don't get it. Her record as a Senator was unremarkable--as was her stint as Secretary of State--unless you count air miles as a badge of accomplishment. Can it really be enough for Liberals that she is female--and Bill Clinton's first lady?
Her proposals for moving our economy forward seem non-existent. Her ideas honestly consist of the same old class warfare, anti-business, income redistribution, support for unions, abortion, gay marriage, business regulation, and environmental strangulation that every other Liberal is spouting. How can this be enough? Where in all this is the optimism and patriotism that this country is desperately searching for?
The troubling thing for me is simply this: Liberals are willing to overlook all of her lies, prevarications, and dodges--even if it turns out her actions were criminal. It's as if one single statement can justify her candidacy: "I'm Hillary Clinton, a woman--vowing to support a larger and larger role for big government in our lives. Really? Is that it truly takes for all you lefties out there to throw in behind your presidential candidate? Does honesty not matter--or any sense of ethical behavior?
Her proposals for moving our economy forward seem non-existent. Her ideas honestly consist of the same old class warfare, anti-business, income redistribution, support for unions, abortion, gay marriage, business regulation, and environmental strangulation that every other Liberal is spouting. How can this be enough? Where in all this is the optimism and patriotism that this country is desperately searching for?
The troubling thing for me is simply this: Liberals are willing to overlook all of her lies, prevarications, and dodges--even if it turns out her actions were criminal. It's as if one single statement can justify her candidacy: "I'm Hillary Clinton, a woman--vowing to support a larger and larger role for big government in our lives. Really? Is that it truly takes for all you lefties out there to throw in behind your presidential candidate? Does honesty not matter--or any sense of ethical behavior?
3
None of this is true!! Just more rehash of fake attacks.
1
It's hard to argue with Bruni's premise, so I won't. By now, we all know that the Clintons are flawed, and they see politics in the manner of the ends (governing) justifying the means (a fib here, a mis-statement there, with enough diversions to keep everyone guessing). Once given governance, they are pretty good at it, political enemies not withstanding.
Hillary should just adopt Carly's stance, which is I don't care if anyone likes me, I'm goling to say things, and even if there is no substance to what I am saying, and it is not provable, when attacked on it, I'm just going to double down and say there are a lot more of whatever it is, and say it spewing venom.
This too-cute-by-half approach Hillary has adopted is offputting. Hillary would be better served to do the attack dog routine that is employed by the GOP candidates. For example, Mike Huckabee, you fashion yourself as the humble down home preacher championing the oppressed conservative Christians; how is it that you are worth $9 million, and why is it you seem to have so many well-heeled, well-known right-wing friends? That would be a start.
Hillary should just adopt Carly's stance, which is I don't care if anyone likes me, I'm goling to say things, and even if there is no substance to what I am saying, and it is not provable, when attacked on it, I'm just going to double down and say there are a lot more of whatever it is, and say it spewing venom.
This too-cute-by-half approach Hillary has adopted is offputting. Hillary would be better served to do the attack dog routine that is employed by the GOP candidates. For example, Mike Huckabee, you fashion yourself as the humble down home preacher championing the oppressed conservative Christians; how is it that you are worth $9 million, and why is it you seem to have so many well-heeled, well-known right-wing friends? That would be a start.
Which is it, Frank? Criticizing Hillary for being a stiff, or now for trying not to be?
I don't need a loveable leader. I need an competent, sane one. And this constant sniping at her by you, Maureen Dowd and other proclaimed progressives is getting tired. How about a column comparing her stand on climate change, women's rights and other vital issues with her potential Republican opponents? Not fun enough, Frank?
Keep tearing her down, then weep and wonder when one of these GOP Neanderthals is elected president. Enough!
www.newyorkgritty.net
I don't need a loveable leader. I need an competent, sane one. And this constant sniping at her by you, Maureen Dowd and other proclaimed progressives is getting tired. How about a column comparing her stand on climate change, women's rights and other vital issues with her potential Republican opponents? Not fun enough, Frank?
Keep tearing her down, then weep and wonder when one of these GOP Neanderthals is elected president. Enough!
www.newyorkgritty.net
4
Hillary doesn't have trouble being genuine, she is 100% false and phony. Easy to understand as she and Bill "who's my mistress tonight" Clinton have no scruples whatsoever. They will lie at the drop of a hat to achieve a win without a shred of conscience slowing them down.
Hillary - a phony, contrived Socialist at the core.
Hillary - a phony, contrived Socialist at the core.
3
I'm still amazed how Hillary! was able to purchase a multi million dollar mansion in Chappaqua while dead broke. That's just salt of the earth right there.
5
Has it never occurred to you that the spot was not intended for you? It's intended for younger voters who are less likely to vote at all. The usual stuff does not appeal to them at all. They rightfully distrust it finding it duplicitous, opaque and boring. That you disliked it so much speaks to the success of the spot. I don't know about you but I don't have the guts to take on Amy Schumer. That Hillary did actually raises her a notch for me.
6
If you think that was a "hard-hitting" interview I have a collection of diamells and faux-pearls to sell you.
She may indeed be a crummy actress, maybe she can't cook, can't tell a joke, snores... It surely doesn't matter to the extent we are being told about it. We don't need to look at her unguarded personality and extrapolate what she'd do in the White House - she has a record of accomplishment. For Trump, we have to extrapolate.
3
Hillary has proven one thing, time and time again.
She has no sense of comedic timing. This continuous attempt is just one of many reasons why I'm voting for Bernie Sanders.
She has no sense of comedic timing. This continuous attempt is just one of many reasons why I'm voting for Bernie Sanders.
3
Maybe if instead of " reintroducing " herself every 4 years, she was just her honest self, and didn't try to be what she's not (warm and fuzzy).
I guess her honest self didn't poll very well.
I guess her honest self didn't poll very well.
4
All the Kings horses, all the Kings men, couldn't put Hillary back together again.
4
“Earlier this month, The Times’s Amy Chozick interviewed her aides and reported that there would be “new efforts to bring spontaneity to a candidacy that sometimes seems wooden and overly cautious.”
I have never been a fan of Hillary Clinton, but I respected her as a reasonably intelligent person with a lot of grit.
What I cannot understand is why she has allowed her staff to announce to the entire nation that she lacks “spontaneity…seems wooden…is overly cautious”
Good grief! They may as well have said we are working on our Hillary but we have our hands full be because she is so inauthentic and has nothing to say on her own unless we script it for her.
If Hillary had done that ridiculous show sans the above comments from her staff, I doubt there would have been much comment. As it is her staff have put her in the untenable position of trying to be spontaneous.
I have never been a fan of Hillary Clinton, but I respected her as a reasonably intelligent person with a lot of grit.
What I cannot understand is why she has allowed her staff to announce to the entire nation that she lacks “spontaneity…seems wooden…is overly cautious”
Good grief! They may as well have said we are working on our Hillary but we have our hands full be because she is so inauthentic and has nothing to say on her own unless we script it for her.
If Hillary had done that ridiculous show sans the above comments from her staff, I doubt there would have been much comment. As it is her staff have put her in the untenable position of trying to be spontaneous.
3
Don't believe everything you read - especially re Hillary - in the New York Times.
1
When you say, "I blame us in part," I think you get it right. In order to maintain the insufferably condescending tone of weary distaste and overfamiliarity, you guys minimize everything Hilary Clinton says and does, homing in on trivia with a microscope and avoiding substance as if it were a hump of spinach on a plate at an all night diner. Your disbelief is a reflection of your own refusal to engage, and your need to seem above it all. Wake up, Bruni, wake up New York Times. I remember Maureen Dowd writing about Al Gore's brown suits with the same tone of contempt, and fear this time around you idiots are going to give us Donald Trump!
5
Another TImes attack on the CLintons.
Deja vu all over again
Lawrence Peter Berra
This is drivel taken to operative heights.
Deja vu all over again
Lawrence Peter Berra
This is drivel taken to operative heights.
4
Drip, drip, drip...
She's frosty. She's tough, she works hard and she pushes back (I will give you defensive too) - all qualities I want in a President. I don't care if she's not Homecoming Queen, that's based on popularity not based on delivering the goods. I'm not a rabid HRC fan but her experience, her knowledge and her willingness to work hard, get the details right and focus on the right stuff puts her heads and shoulders above the Republicans. The problem is that most honest Democrats prefer Bernie but we are not about to tilt at windmills now, we need to keep the White House and HRC isrobably our best bet.
5
"I blame us in part. "
If by "us" you mean the "media" desperate for nonsense to write about, I agree.
If by "us" you mean the "media" desperate for nonsense to write about, I agree.
3
Inauthentic? Donald Trump toting around a bible while he speaks before evangelicals. Inauthentic , the evangelical crowds that cheer for him. You want authentic vote for Ted Cruz! He is a true believer but his beliefs would cause devastation to the poor, women, people of color, immigrants , the environment and anyone who does not practice " Christianity and Christian values ( including the Pope ) as defined by Ted Cruz. I believe Ted Cruz and that is precisely why I find him so dangerous. Whatever Hillary does is never enough to satisfy the press, her critics and the legions of crazy authentic conservatives who have been hell bent on destroying her and everything she stands for and accomplished since she arrived on the scene with her incredibly much less authentic but charismatic husband. In this instance I will accept that sometimes she is scripted and playing to the press or audience as opposed to the deadly the game the others are playing!
2
Let's see - the pundits demand Hillary loosen up and then complain that she's now too loose - basically, "That's not what we meant".
As I recall, you all used to complain about Bill being too much of a glad-hander, too much the life-of-the-party.
This is the modern campaign - a series of "you just can't win" scenarios, about as meaningless as the Republican debate question, "What would your Secret Service code name be?"
As I recall, you all used to complain about Bill being too much of a glad-hander, too much the life-of-the-party.
This is the modern campaign - a series of "you just can't win" scenarios, about as meaningless as the Republican debate question, "What would your Secret Service code name be?"
9
President Obama has refused to be other than his articulate substantial authentic self. And that's despite constant past pressure to schmooze. Hillary should learn from that and be her true bright experienced qualified self. Changing her behavior to meet others expectations is unnecessarily off putting and unattractive at best. She's much too strong and empowered to fall into that mostly Republican generated trap. Also, our election process is much too long and tends to transform vulnerable candidates seeking to be the leader of the free world into (for heaven's sake) sad/humiliating freakish puppets.
4
I guess it depends on how you choose to define "presidential."
I keep seeing this statement made: "She remains the overwhelming favorite for the Democratic nomination." And you know what, I don't believe it. Not when I read descriptors such as "contrivance," "efforts to bring spontaneity," "wooden and overly cautious," . . . there is too much missing and nowhere near enough forward motion.
I keep seeing this statement made: "She remains the overwhelming favorite for the Democratic nomination." And you know what, I don't believe it. Not when I read descriptors such as "contrivance," "efforts to bring spontaneity," "wooden and overly cautious," . . . there is too much missing and nowhere near enough forward motion.
2
Hillary lost my sympathy when I saw her celebrating the news of the murder of Gadaffi. Her reaction is on Youtube.
It not only showed her incapable of sympathising with a human being murdered, it also showed her incapable to understand that such behavior by the insurgents didn't bode well for the future of Libya.
It not only showed her incapable of sympathising with a human being murdered, it also showed her incapable to understand that such behavior by the insurgents didn't bode well for the future of Libya.
3
Mr. Bruni, you've wasted your barrel of ink on this Op-Ed.
Most of us voters don't care how contrived, packaged or stiff our next President is. What we care about is what are they going to do. What are their plans, their programs, their vision and what is their background and experience that gives us a belief and hope that the candidate will make a good, successful President.
While Mrs. Clinton may often appear distant and stiff, I can tell you that when you meet her in person Mrs. Clinton is warm, friendly and engaged. I know, as I've had the pleasure of meet her in both a small setting and at a larger gathering. I've also met Senator Sanders and Mr. Trump in non campaign settings and they also don't match up to a lot of the media's description.
Let's talk about the candidate's substance and not dwell on such silly, trivial nonsense.
Most of us voters don't care how contrived, packaged or stiff our next President is. What we care about is what are they going to do. What are their plans, their programs, their vision and what is their background and experience that gives us a belief and hope that the candidate will make a good, successful President.
While Mrs. Clinton may often appear distant and stiff, I can tell you that when you meet her in person Mrs. Clinton is warm, friendly and engaged. I know, as I've had the pleasure of meet her in both a small setting and at a larger gathering. I've also met Senator Sanders and Mr. Trump in non campaign settings and they also don't match up to a lot of the media's description.
Let's talk about the candidate's substance and not dwell on such silly, trivial nonsense.
10
Ugh. She's doing this because she loses to Bernie Sanders on policy. Sanders is exactly the person the Democratic base has been yearning and waiting for, for years. The funny and ironic thing is that if this Democratic field had been crowded with establishment types that Hillary scared away, Sanders probably would have gone the way of Kucinich. But because Hillary chased away all the other mainstream pols like her, we finally get to see the real thing, at long last - a real, old-school, non-corporate Democrat come to tell it like it is. I have no use for Hillary's alleged "policy wonkiness" because it comes with a side of corporate money and cynicism dressed as realism. It also comes with a strong whiff of the upper classes doing us plebes a favor. Bernie Sanders understands what it is to be poor in America. He's lived it, he meets with poor people, he gets it. And that's precisely why Millennials have flocked to Bernie, and this Dunham interview is only going to sway a few people who probably were already susceptible to voting Hillary based on gender or the fact that they're not and have never been poor.
57
Senator Sanders is "the real deal"; a person who just might stem the tide of the oligarchs. Hillary Clinton is a servant of the oligarchs.
Part of the problem is that Bill and Hillary Clinton are now incredibly wealthy. But when they were younger it was very different. In his book, Mr. Clinton explains that when he proposed to Hillary, he was too poor to buy her a ring. When they left the White House they had massive debt due to Mr. Clinton's legal bills.
Good description of Hillary's main problem, and the correct solution. But can Hillary make peace with herself?
2
From everything I can tell, in person Hillary is pleasant and ready
to talk issues. Plus, she really gets that a lot of government is
making sure, metaphorically, that the garbage is picked up, the timed
traffic lights work correctly at rush hour, and that a person carrying
a bomb can't just walk into a school.
Put differently, everything we really want from a qualified and
smart government chief executive, she's got What she doesn't
have is the kind of joyful, outgoing narcissism that seems so vital to
television audiences and huge crowds. She hasn't got the 'celebrity
touch'.
Remembering Bill's "I feel your pain" line at a town hall meeting in
1992, what struck me at the time was that I felt certain it was just
a line, right up there with "Trust me", and yet at the same time I
sort of admired him for being able to pull off such a brazen
pandering. Hillary can't do that, and the contrast with Bill
couldn't be more painful.
Bill could sell parasols to Arctic explorers. Hillary would read them
the key points from a Consumer Reports review of what parasols
are good for.
She's the parent who offers a kid chicken soup and a spoon
of nasty-tasting medicine without the sweetener. Most politicians
offer the kid nothing but Ring-a-Dings and Oreos.
If only Hillary could just take a little advice from Mary Poppins --
please, Hillary, just add a spoonful of sugar to help the medicine
go down! People will love you for it.
to talk issues. Plus, she really gets that a lot of government is
making sure, metaphorically, that the garbage is picked up, the timed
traffic lights work correctly at rush hour, and that a person carrying
a bomb can't just walk into a school.
Put differently, everything we really want from a qualified and
smart government chief executive, she's got What she doesn't
have is the kind of joyful, outgoing narcissism that seems so vital to
television audiences and huge crowds. She hasn't got the 'celebrity
touch'.
Remembering Bill's "I feel your pain" line at a town hall meeting in
1992, what struck me at the time was that I felt certain it was just
a line, right up there with "Trust me", and yet at the same time I
sort of admired him for being able to pull off such a brazen
pandering. Hillary can't do that, and the contrast with Bill
couldn't be more painful.
Bill could sell parasols to Arctic explorers. Hillary would read them
the key points from a Consumer Reports review of what parasols
are good for.
She's the parent who offers a kid chicken soup and a spoon
of nasty-tasting medicine without the sweetener. Most politicians
offer the kid nothing but Ring-a-Dings and Oreos.
If only Hillary could just take a little advice from Mary Poppins --
please, Hillary, just add a spoonful of sugar to help the medicine
go down! People will love you for it.
51
I've heard people who've met her say that in private, she's almost the polar opposite of the person we see when there is a camera. Bruni is spot-on to dub this kind of Hillary-antic a 'contrivance'. And one so obviously so, it's almost painful to watch.
Of Bernie Sanders, though, I've heard that he is genuine and approachable regardless of the setting he's in. As a man who's comfortable with who he is ~ and unafraid to show it ~ he is the polar opposite of HRC.
Of Bernie Sanders, though, I've heard that he is genuine and approachable regardless of the setting he's in. As a man who's comfortable with who he is ~ and unafraid to show it ~ he is the polar opposite of HRC.
3
Hillary should fire her staff and hire Alexrod or Carville. 6 month into her campaign, she's rudderless. She should avoid inappropriate hipsters like Dunham who'll engage her in disgusting 'cool' chat. As horrible as Jeb! and Rubio are, they're far too dignified - and secure -to get trapped joking with a comedian about Lenny Kravitz 'junk.'
I hoped HRC would run as Eleanor Roosevelt - that wise, unglamorous, socially awkward goose in a loveless marriage who won a huge devoted following with guts and compassion. Remember footage of ER tirelessly visiting soldiers burned beyond recognition during WWII? She learned how to temper her awkwardness utilizing courage and decency. Get HRC off "Ellen" and visit some VA hospitals, failing schools, unemployment offices. If she's can't dp that, she shouldn't be running.
Why can't HRC - or Bill -see this? Stop trying to convince us she's funny, hip, charming - all things not in evidence. Is her vanity hampering her judgement?
If she doesn't fire the staff and get dignified, meaningful and serious, she's as finished as phony, mom-jeans wearing dud Mitt in 2012.
Constant wallpaper coverage of blathering Trump has destroyed the media's sense of how to cover a campaign. We're paying the price.
If Hillary can't run as wise and mature, not a celebrity, this race is over. Judy Garland's career ended miserably, her standing before audiences waiting to hear her sing, begging them to love her. Garland lost sight of why she was there.
I hoped HRC would run as Eleanor Roosevelt - that wise, unglamorous, socially awkward goose in a loveless marriage who won a huge devoted following with guts and compassion. Remember footage of ER tirelessly visiting soldiers burned beyond recognition during WWII? She learned how to temper her awkwardness utilizing courage and decency. Get HRC off "Ellen" and visit some VA hospitals, failing schools, unemployment offices. If she's can't dp that, she shouldn't be running.
Why can't HRC - or Bill -see this? Stop trying to convince us she's funny, hip, charming - all things not in evidence. Is her vanity hampering her judgement?
If she doesn't fire the staff and get dignified, meaningful and serious, she's as finished as phony, mom-jeans wearing dud Mitt in 2012.
Constant wallpaper coverage of blathering Trump has destroyed the media's sense of how to cover a campaign. We're paying the price.
If Hillary can't run as wise and mature, not a celebrity, this race is over. Judy Garland's career ended miserably, her standing before audiences waiting to hear her sing, begging them to love her. Garland lost sight of why she was there.
1
If she'd only posted the Lenny Kravitz penis debate on Snapchat -- which she was so giggly about earlier, only the FBI, NSA . . .Russia, China, and North Korea would've known about it.
I still can't believe Sen. Clinton used the "two phones" excuse. It doesn't make any sense.
I still can't believe Sen. Clinton used the "two phones" excuse. It doesn't make any sense.
1
Are we looking for a person who is fully qualified to be President or for a comedy star. You are who you are and if you have the credentials and the background,what's the confusion?
Insane. Truly. And if the R's are a circus, must the D's follow? Has the US come to that?
1
President Obama goes on Buzzfeed and makes a video of himself making silly faces on selfies.
President Bill Clinton, in an MTV interview, puts to rest one of the most pressing issues facing the nation: boxers or briefs?
Many such events as these get a pass -- or, rather praise for letting their hair down.
The double standard and misogyny is so obvious it's disgraceful.
President Bill Clinton, in an MTV interview, puts to rest one of the most pressing issues facing the nation: boxers or briefs?
Many such events as these get a pass -- or, rather praise for letting their hair down.
The double standard and misogyny is so obvious it's disgraceful.
1
I don't get this. Not that long ago, as Secretary of State, she was Queen of the Universe and widely lauded for her handling of social media. Remember "Texts from Hillary" and how cool she looked in that photo with dark glasses texting from a military transport plane? The spoof site wasn't her idea, but she embraced it with a repsonse that seemed fresh and genuine. Maybe the problem isn't Hillary but her handlers, who can use a phrase like "efforts at spontaneity" without tripping over the irony. Maybe Hillary already is warm and genuine, and we're the ones overthinking things here — or you are, members of the pundit class. Maybe she's already connecting with large swaths of voters the other candidates could only dream of connecting with. Maybe we should just let Hillary be Hillary — and if her handlers won't let her do that, then screw her handlers, she should try going it alone a la Donald Trump. She's gotten this far with her own well-honed instincts, further than any other woman in history! No one else this time around has the whole package — the grace, the experience, the earthy good humor, the ability to get up off the mat and keep fighting. As Obama once put it, I'm sure she's more than "likeable enough" to go all the way.
1
Hillary's quest is built on naked ambition. It's obvious that she'll do, say, promise anything that she hopes will bring energy to her campaign. That she considers the oval office as her earned compensation for what others may consider an ineffective congressional service and a unaccomplished foreign service is oblivious to her.
And then there is the matter of Bill which ensnared Hillary in all types of shady Arkansas good-old-boy dealings. It's amazing that she and Bill have been around so long young voters know nothing of Whitewater and Vincent Foster. And doesn't marriage to Bill rate some sort of reward for putting up with his bimbo-of-the-week escapades? - which eventually turned Monica into a "right wing conspiracy."
Whether or not she is competent is irrelevant when the nation is thoroughly bored with Hillary and wants her to simply go away.
And then there is the matter of Bill which ensnared Hillary in all types of shady Arkansas good-old-boy dealings. It's amazing that she and Bill have been around so long young voters know nothing of Whitewater and Vincent Foster. And doesn't marriage to Bill rate some sort of reward for putting up with his bimbo-of-the-week escapades? - which eventually turned Monica into a "right wing conspiracy."
Whether or not she is competent is irrelevant when the nation is thoroughly bored with Hillary and wants her to simply go away.
3
For some of us, the important thing is how sane the policy positions are, not how stiff or natural a candidate is. We would be so much better off if all of us thought that way. I don't understand it. Other countries vote in world leaders who may not necessarily be the most photogenic or backslapping gregarious person in the room. Our priorities are so warped, we deserve the government we have.
I can't figure out why HRC would want to subject herself to all this. It is difficult to believe, and she makes it difficult to believe, that she has unfinished business that includes doing good for the average world citizen. Let's not be coy, the USA has enormous influence on world events. Mostly that has been evil for quite some time, I don't remember HRC saying that she would change that.
She has said some things about domestic issues, health care and a few others, but really, not anything anyone could get excited about much less believe. It is all just white sound.
67 is a good age to be. It is a good age for reflection, and it can be a good age for action.
There is no good place for action in most of politics. The higher the office the fewer options there are.
HRC appears to have a lot to offer, but this venue is broken. I don't know why any sensible woman would want it.
She has said some things about domestic issues, health care and a few others, but really, not anything anyone could get excited about much less believe. It is all just white sound.
67 is a good age to be. It is a good age for reflection, and it can be a good age for action.
There is no good place for action in most of politics. The higher the office the fewer options there are.
HRC appears to have a lot to offer, but this venue is broken. I don't know why any sensible woman would want it.
It seems to me that the more Hillary tries to win over the crowds, the worse
it gets....and to be honest...she hasn't got charisma...and it just has fallen
flat like no bubbles in a glass of champagne ....in a few words..
Bill Clinton has upstaged Hillary...and both have one thing in common...
being not so trustworthy...and so that is a common trait that has just stuck
to both of them...and makes Hillary really unelectable.
it gets....and to be honest...she hasn't got charisma...and it just has fallen
flat like no bubbles in a glass of champagne ....in a few words..
Bill Clinton has upstaged Hillary...and both have one thing in common...
being not so trustworthy...and so that is a common trait that has just stuck
to both of them...and makes Hillary really unelectable.
4
She'll try anything to distract people from the train wreck that is her candidacy. What worse, the Democrats are letting her get away with it.
3
Trying to make Hillary into a celebrity, with close-ups and including hair and clothing critiques shows the hurdle for a woman candidate still strong.
I'm for Bernie and see how his looks also as well as his age are used as bias against a solid record. Ageism is a real thing.
We must get over our obsession with superficiality. Our gov't: it can work if you want it.
also get over our love of soundbites. A revolution in the press needs to take over as well as in the people. Substance must be more important than style.
The path we're on is not leading to truth or the common good.
Just the opposite. You the press bear much responsibility.
I'm for Bernie and see how his looks also as well as his age are used as bias against a solid record. Ageism is a real thing.
We must get over our obsession with superficiality. Our gov't: it can work if you want it.
also get over our love of soundbites. A revolution in the press needs to take over as well as in the people. Substance must be more important than style.
The path we're on is not leading to truth or the common good.
Just the opposite. You the press bear much responsibility.
2
The liberal left bashed Ronald Reagan for his age -- from his campaign in 1980, until he left office in January 1989 -- without mercy. In any discussion of Reagan, the first thing said is often "he was senile". Reagan was 5 years younger than Bernie Sanders would be, if elected.
1
I jumped straight to the comments section because based on the title, I expected this to be yet another column by Frank Bruni about Hillary Clinton in which he strains to be one of her detractors. His animosity for her is so palpable it makes one wonder whether they have a history. Well, do you, Frank?
Based on the overwhelming majority of comments, it seems that this column was a waste and a misfire. You have a prime real estate on the op-ed pages of the New York Times, use it well and constructively!
Based on the overwhelming majority of comments, it seems that this column was a waste and a misfire. You have a prime real estate on the op-ed pages of the New York Times, use it well and constructively!
3
I've concluded there is a little "tiff" going on at the NYT, between the more liberal columnists and the slightly less left wing liberal columnists -- the more lefty ones want Sanders. The more establishment want Hillary.
I am sure it will all work out in about a year.
I am sure it will all work out in about a year.
1
She is "intelligent blah. blah, blah." She also, in conjunction with her husband, puts what's best for team Clinton above everything else, meaning an immersion in scandal and even worse, deliberate violation of the law. How quickly the perjury and obstruction of justice is forgotten. But, they get away with it because they are masters at manipulating the system, legal and political, trashing successfully whomever poses a threat, and, most important, because they are Democrats.
In short, Hillary Clinton is a first class fake, phony, fraud. It seems at least some of the public and the otherwise let nothing ill be said of Hillary Clinton, whose only claim to the nations' highest office is that she is a woman, media is finally wising up to that.
In short, Hillary Clinton is a first class fake, phony, fraud. It seems at least some of the public and the otherwise let nothing ill be said of Hillary Clinton, whose only claim to the nations' highest office is that she is a woman, media is finally wising up to that.
3
It's as bad to insist we MUST vote for a candidate just for being a woman ("it's time"!) as it is for putting her down.
Even male candidates are vetted on how they look -- how healthy, how fit, how young or old, how TALL are they, are they slim or fat (think of how Chris Christie was lambasted for his weight!), etc. A male candidate who wore brown plaid polyester suits with an orange tie, or flood length slacks, would be excoriated in the press.
Women candidates will always suffer, because by the time you have the maturity and experience to run for POTUS, by necessity you are at least 45 if not older. We are a youth-worshipping culture and have no role models for older woman to look powerful and professional, without being dumped on for their wrinkles, weight, gray hair, etc.
Even male candidates are vetted on how they look -- how healthy, how fit, how young or old, how TALL are they, are they slim or fat (think of how Chris Christie was lambasted for his weight!), etc. A male candidate who wore brown plaid polyester suits with an orange tie, or flood length slacks, would be excoriated in the press.
Women candidates will always suffer, because by the time you have the maturity and experience to run for POTUS, by necessity you are at least 45 if not older. We are a youth-worshipping culture and have no role models for older woman to look powerful and professional, without being dumped on for their wrinkles, weight, gray hair, etc.
Does the Times really need two Maureen Dowds?
12
If she would embrace her phoniness she would come across more genuine. She's too old for this shtick.
3
Mr. Bruni, as some one who often criticized others about their insensitivities about gay rights, perhaps you can learn to temper your misogynistic columns disguised in the form of diatribes against Hillary Clinton!
12
It has been interesting to me to watch how gays & lesbians have reacted to being more socially included, accepted legally and in media, and having more political power.
In fact, they have used that acceptance to....become worse bigots and shrewish critics than anyone was prior to THEM. They have no sense of the irony in this.
Gays & lesbians are the first to snark on a female candidate for her looks or wardrobe, or "lack of personality".
Now that they have "won" and forced gay marriage on the nation, there is no more reason for gays & lesbians to be Democrats. I suspect many of them will move over to other parties, both on the left and right.
In fact, they have used that acceptance to....become worse bigots and shrewish critics than anyone was prior to THEM. They have no sense of the irony in this.
Gays & lesbians are the first to snark on a female candidate for her looks or wardrobe, or "lack of personality".
Now that they have "won" and forced gay marriage on the nation, there is no more reason for gays & lesbians to be Democrats. I suspect many of them will move over to other parties, both on the left and right.
I agree heartily with gemli. My god, a campaign is a messy thing. Let's keep our eyes on the bigger, much bigger, picture. Hillary will be a smart, tough, diligent president; as a two-term senator and secretary of state, she has a world of experience that the clowns and whiners in the Republican primary can only wish for. Fiorina -- a liar and a failure; Trump -- a liar and bigot; Caron -- a liar (surely as a physician who must have spent time in biology and chemistry labs, he cannot really discount the theory of evolution), homophobe, and buffoon, who made his mark by insulting the president during a prayer breakfast. Those are the leading Republican contenders. Oh, and let's not forget the slippery Marco Rubio, who runs away from his own immigration bill, or the truly insipid and uninformed Jeb!, who seems as clueless as his brother. Do any of those people stack up even a little bit against Mrs. Clinton? I don't think so.
9
The Clintons are not liars? hahahahaha! that's the funniest thing I've read all day!
Mr. Clinton was nearly IMPEACHED for lying to Congress. Mrs. Clinton accepted his lies and infidelities and stayed with him -- on the condition that when his term was finished, he'd put 100% of his effort into see that SHE had the same success and became POTUS. A real political marriage.
Hillary has provably lied over Benghazi and now the emails. She's almost certainly going to be forced out of the race by spring at the latest. I am calling it as "she's going to claim some physical illness", so as to spare the party.
Mr. Clinton was nearly IMPEACHED for lying to Congress. Mrs. Clinton accepted his lies and infidelities and stayed with him -- on the condition that when his term was finished, he'd put 100% of his effort into see that SHE had the same success and became POTUS. A real political marriage.
Hillary has provably lied over Benghazi and now the emails. She's almost certainly going to be forced out of the race by spring at the latest. I am calling it as "she's going to claim some physical illness", so as to spare the party.
Disturbing. I am sick of women like Amy Schumer, who, in an effort to appeal to the lowest denominator, needs to drag everybody down to her level. When did "Being Cool become Being Crude and Uncultured"?
This is why there is no strong feminine or sensuality in the US. There are only women who dress like barbies, street walkers and drag queens, while their neediness (for money, fame and instant popularity) dominates their behaviors.
Hillary could have had jokes with Ellen Degeneres in stead of all this nonsense...who might now be "Yelling Degenerate".
What exactly is the niche Ms Clinton is trying to reach? Idiots who do not vote, or idiots who vote. And does she need idiots on her side?
This is why there is no strong feminine or sensuality in the US. There are only women who dress like barbies, street walkers and drag queens, while their neediness (for money, fame and instant popularity) dominates their behaviors.
Hillary could have had jokes with Ellen Degeneres in stead of all this nonsense...who might now be "Yelling Degenerate".
What exactly is the niche Ms Clinton is trying to reach? Idiots who do not vote, or idiots who vote. And does she need idiots on her side?
4
"She is fiercely intelligent but, yes, wildly defensive."
Defensive? No, really? I don't suppose that a quarter century of relentless persecution over phony, made-up scandals would have anything to do with that, would it? Are we now on "Spontaneity-gate" or what? I've lost track.
Defensive? No, really? I don't suppose that a quarter century of relentless persecution over phony, made-up scandals would have anything to do with that, would it? Are we now on "Spontaneity-gate" or what? I've lost track.
17
I admit to having been around Hillary Clinton only three times in my life. On each occasion there was light conversation amongst her and a small group of supporters before she moved along to the next small group of supporters.
But, on each occasion, I followed along and simply stood outside the conversing group and watched and listened.
Friends had told me that they didn't understand the constant cranks about her being "wooden" and "inauthentic" and "distant" and "cold." That the limited time they spent around her had left them with a totally opposite impression. They found her interested and interesting, quite human and, as we reference it in the South, amazingly "down-home" for a woman who has experienced so much.
On each of the three occasions I have been around her, I have found the same thing as my friends. I would only add the words "really intelligent" to their words.
Sorry, but I just don't get it. It is as if the criticism of her has become a meme that, though untrue, has taken on a life of its own. It's quite fine with me for others to disagree, but that number of my friends and I simply can't be all wrong about her.
But, on each occasion, I followed along and simply stood outside the conversing group and watched and listened.
Friends had told me that they didn't understand the constant cranks about her being "wooden" and "inauthentic" and "distant" and "cold." That the limited time they spent around her had left them with a totally opposite impression. They found her interested and interesting, quite human and, as we reference it in the South, amazingly "down-home" for a woman who has experienced so much.
On each of the three occasions I have been around her, I have found the same thing as my friends. I would only add the words "really intelligent" to their words.
Sorry, but I just don't get it. It is as if the criticism of her has become a meme that, though untrue, has taken on a life of its own. It's quite fine with me for others to disagree, but that number of my friends and I simply can't be all wrong about her.
166
Also my experience.
My family used to live in Chappapqua, NY. I met her many times.
She is warm and genuine.
Perhaps, people are comparing her to Bill. He is the best politician I have ever seen.
They both loved attending small town functions. There was no press around, but people still wouldn't believe they would show up just for the experience of village life.
Skeptisicism seems to be very powerful here.
My family used to live in Chappapqua, NY. I met her many times.
She is warm and genuine.
Perhaps, people are comparing her to Bill. He is the best politician I have ever seen.
They both loved attending small town functions. There was no press around, but people still wouldn't believe they would show up just for the experience of village life.
Skeptisicism seems to be very powerful here.
1
Yeah, you could be wrong. I find her completely phony and untrustworthy. The tears in New Hampshire. The southern accent in Selma. Refusing to stake a position on anything remotely controversial - transpacific pact, keystone - until it's been internally polled to death. I won't vote for her, even though I voted for Bill and Gore and Obama. She's an extremely vulnerable candidate.
Yeah, you and your friends CAN be wrong.
Some people are very nice in private but terrible in public. I have read (and believe) that Pat Nixon was a delightful, funny, warm lady but she came across in public like a store mannequin -- stiff. Rosalyn Carter was said to be warm and sweet in public, but an "iron lady" in private.
President Obama can come across as "the smartest guy in the room", but I suspect it is sham, which is why he won't release his college transcripts (Bush did! despite having C grades!). I believe it's because he was a mediocre student who got by on good looks and Affirmative Action. (No, I do not believe he was born in Kenya, nor that he is a Muslim.)
I remember in 2008, the point at which I realized that -- against all odds -- Obama was going to win. It was when people started talking about how great his temperament was -- that he never got angry -- always kept his cool -- that he WAS cool. Someone compared him to Nat King Cole. I realized them he had created a public persona that both blacks and whites identified with, and that he would win over Senator McCain, in part because Obama was young and vibrant (and cool!) and McCain was none of those things.
Some people are very nice in private but terrible in public. I have read (and believe) that Pat Nixon was a delightful, funny, warm lady but she came across in public like a store mannequin -- stiff. Rosalyn Carter was said to be warm and sweet in public, but an "iron lady" in private.
President Obama can come across as "the smartest guy in the room", but I suspect it is sham, which is why he won't release his college transcripts (Bush did! despite having C grades!). I believe it's because he was a mediocre student who got by on good looks and Affirmative Action. (No, I do not believe he was born in Kenya, nor that he is a Muslim.)
I remember in 2008, the point at which I realized that -- against all odds -- Obama was going to win. It was when people started talking about how great his temperament was -- that he never got angry -- always kept his cool -- that he WAS cool. Someone compared him to Nat King Cole. I realized them he had created a public persona that both blacks and whites identified with, and that he would win over Senator McCain, in part because Obama was young and vibrant (and cool!) and McCain was none of those things.
I don't need my Hillary "repackaged", I'm perfectly happy remembering her when during Bill's first term as president when she had just become First Lady, she tried to address the issue of universal healthcare. She stayed with Bill during the Lewinsky scandal when the right-wing conspiracy was criticizing her for it, although they claim to be all about "family". She was an admirable senator from my home state. She was diligent in putting forward America's interests during her time as Secretary of State. She's fully on-board with same-sex marriage, notwithstanding the fact that it took some time for her to get there. Bottom line: she is LIGHT YEARS ahead of the GOP neanderthals ON EVERY SINGLE ISSUE and at EVERY LEVEL. The choice is an easy one and Hillary Clinton as President of the United States would be an achievement that all sensible Americans could find solace in. Sorry, Frank, I know you're not on-board, since you left writing about food every other article seems to include bashing The Clintons on some level.
20
So - Hillary is "wildly defensive?"
Even if that were true - who could blame her?
This dedicated public servant has been all but subjected to the Salem witch trials!
This has been going on since the early 1990's.
Lacking any decent ideas the right wing viciously assaults people with innuendo and subjects them to inquisitions, in Congress, in the press.
This is shameful. And now in addition to the endless Benghazi spectacle they're tormenting the head of Planned Parenthood and threatening to shut down the government and cut off funding to this venerable provider of women's health care.
Outrageous.
Even if that were true - who could blame her?
This dedicated public servant has been all but subjected to the Salem witch trials!
This has been going on since the early 1990's.
Lacking any decent ideas the right wing viciously assaults people with innuendo and subjects them to inquisitions, in Congress, in the press.
This is shameful. And now in addition to the endless Benghazi spectacle they're tormenting the head of Planned Parenthood and threatening to shut down the government and cut off funding to this venerable provider of women's health care.
Outrageous.
15
Hillary is far from perfect, but compared to the Republican
crew, she looks better than ever. Sanders can't win
nationally, and Biden seems reluctant. So it's time to
stop picking her apart, and embrace her candidacy.
crew, she looks better than ever. Sanders can't win
nationally, and Biden seems reluctant. So it's time to
stop picking her apart, and embrace her candidacy.
9
I don't know what's more boring: the pundits' content-free echo chamber about how bad Hillary is, or the excruciatingly detailed blow-by-blow coverage of everything Donald Trump says.
8
It's not the image, it's the substance. Now, can we move off this unending sophomoric discussion?
4
I think Clinton should simply play the gravitas card, the 'been there, done that' truth of her resume, the wonk who actually reads policy briefs on the plane, the woman who i smarter and works harder than anyone else on any other team. The media might not love it, it has several advantages. First, it is honest, which is great, and secondly, Hillary is actually extraordinarily competent. Trying to script spontaneity or passion only makes the contrast more painful. simply being the most qualified candidate in either party to be president is enough.
12
Once again, re 'been there, done that' done what exactly? Apart from racking up most frequent flyer miles ever. Oh and enabling a serial philanderer (and possibly worse) of a husband. It's a serious question, and I've been waiting years for a serious answer. (PS. Supposedly "good" intentions don't count either; concrete accomplishments only will be accepted in answer.)
Hillary is in rising hot water. A journalist with decades at The New York Times in a senior editor's position, now departed, says that Valerie Jarrett and the Obamas want Hillary to withdraw - and will support Joe Biden.
3
Hillary already had piles of baggage -- plus in 2008, she was carting around a tired, old, whiny ex POTUS Bill Clinton -- when she let the email issue out of the bag.
It's like she has a death wish. I have come to realize she doesn't really WANT to be POTUS at some level, which is why she gave up and conceded to Obama 7 years ago.
It's like she has a death wish. I have come to realize she doesn't really WANT to be POTUS at some level, which is why she gave up and conceded to Obama 7 years ago.
Aren't you doing the same thing? You complain her campaign is "devoid of soul," and go on and on about her clumsy efforts to please people like you who demand soul from her, then in the past two sentences you say it's actually ok. Which one is it?
2
Why is everybody trying so hard? Let's just admit it. Hillary is just a bad candidate that makes awfully bad decisions. First, she was beaten by a Senator newcomer, Obama. Then she is given a responsibility position at the highest level of Government as Secretary of State -- reporting directly to President Obama. And what does she decide to do in that capacity? She sets-up a home-brew server for communicating at the highest level of the United States Government. Any person that does not think that confidential and secret information would not be transmitted when communicating at that level in Government is completely out-to-lunch. It is reported that the server at one point was sitting in a bathroom somewhere in an apartment in Colorado. One could not come up with a more bizarre scenario for the irresponsible behavior. My questions is where was Bill Clinton counseling Hillary about whether setting up the server was appropriate or not? That is called out of touch and entitled to different set of standards. Sorry but this is not Presidential material.
3
z z z get over it, y'all. Yet another nitpicking screed. Hillary is just TERRIBLE, isn't she? She can't do ANYTHING right. What nonsense. How many times has Jeb's every tiny little move been deserted countless ways every five minutes? Are we supposed to believe that none of this is sexist?
4
Sadly, we have evolved into a country that picks leaders in a popularity contest way. A candidates well thought out policies are irrelevant if they don't come across as someone a voter would want to have a beer with. This probably began with Nixon/Kennedy who had the first televised debate -- which was thought by those who watched on TV to be won by Kennedy (while those listening believed Nixon the winner). My point is we have let superficial influences affect who we vote for to our detriment again and again. Hilary Clinton is amazingly accomplished yet is forced to act silly or trendy in order to get elected, it is a sad statement about our electorAte.
4
My unified theory of Clinton commentary and coverage; the more cynical the journalist, the more cynical they are likely to see the Clintons.
That said, I appreciate the relative nuance that Bruni brings to the question of Hillary's image.
But let's be clear, how exactly is Hillary supposed to present herself simply AS herself when for the past 23+ years she's had, on one hand, a very committed slander machine (the right) determined to shape the public's perception of her as various misogynist caricatures (shrew, bitch, cold Machiavellian power-monger etc)... and on the other hand, a very committed Clinton Commentariat (the press) that spends far more energy trying to psychoanalyze, diagnose, second-guess and project upon her persona as needs fit their particular story of the moment than actually covering her record and her proposals?
In this atmosphere, it's not terribly difficult to understand why Hillary Clinton might expend a little extra effort to present a positive image of herself. If she overshoots the mark from time to time, I can live with it. This isn't the Bachelorette. This is politics with enormous consequences.
You can't bemoan the Age of Trump, where reality TV-style politics has taken over serious discussion when you are also insistent that every major public figure must be seen through the lens of celebrity and image. A little here and there? Sure. But this level of scrutiny – at the expense of substantive coverage – it does not serve the public.
That said, I appreciate the relative nuance that Bruni brings to the question of Hillary's image.
But let's be clear, how exactly is Hillary supposed to present herself simply AS herself when for the past 23+ years she's had, on one hand, a very committed slander machine (the right) determined to shape the public's perception of her as various misogynist caricatures (shrew, bitch, cold Machiavellian power-monger etc)... and on the other hand, a very committed Clinton Commentariat (the press) that spends far more energy trying to psychoanalyze, diagnose, second-guess and project upon her persona as needs fit their particular story of the moment than actually covering her record and her proposals?
In this atmosphere, it's not terribly difficult to understand why Hillary Clinton might expend a little extra effort to present a positive image of herself. If she overshoots the mark from time to time, I can live with it. This isn't the Bachelorette. This is politics with enormous consequences.
You can't bemoan the Age of Trump, where reality TV-style politics has taken over serious discussion when you are also insistent that every major public figure must be seen through the lens of celebrity and image. A little here and there? Sure. But this level of scrutiny – at the expense of substantive coverage – it does not serve the public.
5
Please...does the phrase, "Can't win for loosing," sound familiar. What exactly does Hillary have to do to please you at the Times? Y'all admit she is competent, fiercely intelligent, her policies are deeply thought out and generally able to be accomplished. She has abiding relationships with many in Congress so has a fair chance at actually implementing her ideas. She wants to improve Obamacare, make equal pay a real issue, raise the minumum wage. Her pedigree at fighting for civil rights is second to none (at least none who are running for president). The big knock is that she is not "genuine" enough for the pundits. OK...not exactly a terrible criticism, but she tries to loosen up. While admittedly awkward, there is a certain charm in the awkwardness of her interviews with Dunham, Fallon, etc. But is it enough? No. She is still not good enough. Will SHE ever be good enough? Women have always known they have to be twice as good as the men they are competing with, but this is getting ridiculous. Are you really writing a column stating that a highly prepared person running for president should not be elected because she can't do good stand up comedy? What else does she need to do? Brain surgery? Have you SEEN the candidates on the R side? Have you listened to the impossible to accomplish "demands" of Sanders? Really? We are talking about leading our country, and you criticizing Clinton for not being ready to do a weekend set in the Catskills. Come on!
15
Thank you for this comment. I couldn't agree more. Remember when it was, "Can she bake cookies?" THe Repulicans have not moved on from that. Let's hope the media can.
1
so the writer ends up secretly yearning for some passion. JEEZ , if you want to be swept up emotionally go see a movie. This is politics and like it or not it comes down to serious ideas for millions of lives. Despite the media's (your field) angst that the real Hillary isn't coming through, give it up - that's her and we're impressed that she continues to challenge you all to print very thoughtful ,sensible positions. Gee, boring.
11
A politician at that level should be in psycho-analyses. Every day of the week for 45 mins. 2 or 3 years uninterrupted.
The analist would pick 1 or 3 crucial issues and focus on it. No chit chat therapy, but good old fashioned couch work.
Of course W. Bush was a hopeless case for even to start a decent treatment.
The analist would pick 1 or 3 crucial issues and focus on it. No chit chat therapy, but good old fashioned couch work.
Of course W. Bush was a hopeless case for even to start a decent treatment.
Chill people, the election is over 12 months away. She'll be there against whomever the republicans put on their ticket, most likely, Jeb Bush; and in Jan 2017, we'll be watching the inauguration of Hillary.
5
No -- JEB! is finished. I think it was the "JEB!" logo. He's a weak speaker & debater. He's crumbled like a house of cards. I can't see him in the race past January.
So it won't be JEB! vs anybody. Maybe Trump -- maybe a Cruz/Rubio ticket. The GOP has more candidates and will have more fallout.
The Dems for some reason did not groom a few young candidates or anyone of color, because they were so mesmerized by their "black messiah/savior" the last 7 years. Where are the NEW young black or hispanic or asian candidates????
So the Dems basically have three OLD, very rich, white haggard folks running -- Hillary, Bernie, Joe. It's not a pretty picture.
So it won't be JEB! vs anybody. Maybe Trump -- maybe a Cruz/Rubio ticket. The GOP has more candidates and will have more fallout.
The Dems for some reason did not groom a few young candidates or anyone of color, because they were so mesmerized by their "black messiah/savior" the last 7 years. Where are the NEW young black or hispanic or asian candidates????
So the Dems basically have three OLD, very rich, white haggard folks running -- Hillary, Bernie, Joe. It's not a pretty picture.
After surveying the field of obscure Republicans, and seeing that Hillary's campaign is mired in esoterica, it seems to me that after seven years of a serious, Obama, America is aching for the simple and inane!
2
Hillary's been criticized for not being warm and fuzzy, now she's made an attempt to add humor and become a laughing stock. Please, this column wasn't worthy of some of your better talents. Can't the media focus on her proposed programs and experience not to mention her command of the facts. Let's move on.
9
Hillary Clinton, like Donald Trump, is a plastic person who will say or do anything to appeal to this group or that group, at any given moment. Where he wants to bolster the tough businessman persona as a foil to standard-issue politicians, she struggles to appear "more human" or to "reveal a softer side." So far, she is losing ground.
The problem with Hillary is this... it is that she continues to hit the reset button. Each do-over/mulligan gets her off to an even less successful / less believable start than each previous attempt.
...Which begs the question: Is there any "there" there with her? Or is she just grasping at some sort of public persona that approaches popular. She is actually losing ground with Democrats, at this point. While still leading in all the polls, the self-proclaimed "Socialist" Sanders is rising in the polls to match her, and Biden is gaining ground despite the fact that he isn't technically running, yet.
If Mrs. Clinton is a real power player with a real resume and real leadership solutions (which she should be able to argue, successfully in her sleep), then why is she resorting to fluff interviews with an HBO actress to save her campaign? I'd say that's her biggest challenge and I am not sure she'll overcome it.
Just my opinion... She's no Bill Clinton.
The problem with Hillary is this... it is that she continues to hit the reset button. Each do-over/mulligan gets her off to an even less successful / less believable start than each previous attempt.
...Which begs the question: Is there any "there" there with her? Or is she just grasping at some sort of public persona that approaches popular. She is actually losing ground with Democrats, at this point. While still leading in all the polls, the self-proclaimed "Socialist" Sanders is rising in the polls to match her, and Biden is gaining ground despite the fact that he isn't technically running, yet.
If Mrs. Clinton is a real power player with a real resume and real leadership solutions (which she should be able to argue, successfully in her sleep), then why is she resorting to fluff interviews with an HBO actress to save her campaign? I'd say that's her biggest challenge and I am not sure she'll overcome it.
Just my opinion... She's no Bill Clinton.
3
Well, it's time for the press to stop with all its nonsense. The president doesn't have to be clown-in-chief. I would prefer someone who was wooden (Gore) to someone who has no substance (Trump) any time. Let's look at the candidates for who they are, and what they are able to accomplish. The rest is all window dressing and a waste of time.
5
Id prefer someone ,who when they speak, I believe is being honest and true.
Hillary doesnt.
Hillary doesnt.
Just for fun, try searching "Sanders" on the Times website. You get virtually nothing. Lots of stuff on Hillary's outfits or Fiorina's history, or Uncle Joe, or even Jeb!'s latest plan to ravage the land. Nothing on Bernie, though. He's a New York Jew: has the Times turned anti-semitic? [Of course, the doobies who censor these posts are going to kill this one; but they should at least feel ashamed.]
6
Where is the article on Bernie Sanders introducing to Congress this month, legislation to end for profit prisons? And information that Hillary Clintons top fundraising bubdlers 2016 are private prison corporations...and it is Bill Clinton that created laws which filled for profit prisons with minorities.
7
Hillary is arrogant, dismissive, and dishonest to her core. Just look at her checkered history.
These traits emerge in public, so she needs to be packaged for human consumption by her handlers.
Ugh!
These traits emerge in public, so she needs to be packaged for human consumption by her handlers.
Ugh!
7
Of course, you're a Republican, so you would see her in any and every negative light. And "handlers?" Like a dog? It's still hard, isn't it, to think of women as competent humans.
So Hillary Clinton has failed to impress one columnist who, although he berates himself and the media for wanting her to entertain, finds fault with the fact that she's intelligent, hardworking, knowledgeable, experienced, more than capable of being president but, my god, she isn't entertaining.
And they say people focus on the wrong things!
And they say people focus on the wrong things!
13
It is amusing to watch the angst of the progressives over HRC. They have held their nose and surrendered to the inevitable. But it causes them discomfort is the same way that one feels when one has to lie "for a good reason". The only salvation is being able to point ta the republican candidates and yell: "oh yeah !?!?! well look at them!!". Which is basically what the comments posted on this column say. Pretty sad state of affairs.
3
She is craven!
3
I think if you make such a comment, you must support it, and you didn't, you couldn't. That's what we call a cheap shot...shame on the NYT for not knowing that.
1
Will we be seeing a column picking on Bernie Sanders' suits and haircut? It seems the Republicans have made it a hobby to escalate psuedo scandals about Secretary Clinton--Benghazi, emails--and the press wants in on the action in some way. Clinton-bashing is fun?
The fact is, she was a dynamite, hard working Secretary of State who gained the respect of politicians and heads of state the world over. I believe she genuinely cares about people. She has championed the cause of equality for women worldwide. There will always be something we can pick at, but will it be worth reading? She is experienced, seasoned, and very good at her work. The election is still more than a year out.
What it has come to is there's not much to report at this early date, so we have to pick, and Clinton is a habitual target, not that she's trying to seem this or that. I'm beginning to think she'll be worth voting for simply because she can withstand all this negativity and still keep on smiling and having some fun.
Let's leave the idiotic picking to the Republicans, shall we? We don't have to stoop that low. I want to read op-ed pieces on where these people stand and let the tabloids handle the rest of it.
The fact is, she was a dynamite, hard working Secretary of State who gained the respect of politicians and heads of state the world over. I believe she genuinely cares about people. She has championed the cause of equality for women worldwide. There will always be something we can pick at, but will it be worth reading? She is experienced, seasoned, and very good at her work. The election is still more than a year out.
What it has come to is there's not much to report at this early date, so we have to pick, and Clinton is a habitual target, not that she's trying to seem this or that. I'm beginning to think she'll be worth voting for simply because she can withstand all this negativity and still keep on smiling and having some fun.
Let's leave the idiotic picking to the Republicans, shall we? We don't have to stoop that low. I want to read op-ed pieces on where these people stand and let the tabloids handle the rest of it.
4
Any more videos like that with Lena Dunham it will not be a trickle of Democrats asking for Joe to enter the race it wild be a tidal wave. Face it, Hillary doesn't get it and she is one awful campaigner.
3
Okay, Frank we get it!
You and Maureen don't like Hillary!
Fine. So vote for Donald or one of the other Republican clowns to lead the country.
As for me, I don't elect a President to go drinking with. I want dedication, intelligence, commitment, and ability. I'll vote for Hillary.
You and Maureen don't like Hillary!
Fine. So vote for Donald or one of the other Republican clowns to lead the country.
As for me, I don't elect a President to go drinking with. I want dedication, intelligence, commitment, and ability. I'll vote for Hillary.
15
Hillary Clinton is inauthentic. Bill Clinton was inauthentic. George W. Bush was authentic. Clinton was a good President and George W. Bush was a disaster. That said it is a shame that a woman as accomplished and qualified as Hillary Clinton feels that it is necessary to make such an obvious and embarrassing attempt to pander to the whims of voters. I'm not sure who I am more ashamed of? Her for doing it, her handlers for thinking it is necessary, or the American voters for insisting that she prove that she would be fun to hang out with.
3
Funny that Clinton's first video for this campaign showed loving same-sex couples together -- thus making gay rights and presidential campaign history -- but Bruni says that the campaign is "devoid of soul."
6
If she's ever done anything worthwhile, I missed it.
In Arkansas, she helped sink her employer, the Rose Law Firm.
Has everyone forgotten her "healthcare plan" when she was first lady?
Does anyone remember any success in the Senate?
As Secretary of State, she was utterly disastrous: we lost ground everywhere.
Give credit where due. She managed to marry Bill because at Yale Law School, she was the only person who claimed (surely falsely) to believe Bill's brag that he was going to be President. That got her where she is.
In Arkansas, she helped sink her employer, the Rose Law Firm.
Has everyone forgotten her "healthcare plan" when she was first lady?
Does anyone remember any success in the Senate?
As Secretary of State, she was utterly disastrous: we lost ground everywhere.
Give credit where due. She managed to marry Bill because at Yale Law School, she was the only person who claimed (surely falsely) to believe Bill's brag that he was going to be President. That got her where she is.
4
Hillary Clinton has now added nauseating to the many negative aspects of her public persona. I have no idea who the "us" is that wants her to be more "raw," but I absolutely know that I am not a member of the "us." Of course, Frank Bruni blames a nameless, faceless "us," because otherwise he would have to lay the blame squarely where it belongs. If any other candidate was such a disaster--Howard Dean, Rick Perry, Dan Quayle come to mind--no one would be talking about how the public is responsible for their failure.
Hillary Clinton is as close to unelectable as a candidate of her stature can get. Americans don't like her and don't trust her. Everything she does--everything--makes Americans support her less. The more American see of her, the less they approve.
Yes, she is still the favorite to be the nominee, but that should cause the Democrats profound trepidation. I know that no liberal will accept this, but even Donald Trump could beat her. Marco Rubio will crush her. Remarkably, the Democrats best hope now is that Crazy Uncle Joe Biden will rescue them from the Evil Queen before the coronation. Yes, for all of the true leftists, Bernie Sanders is more electable than Hillary. Almost anyone is.
This will not get better. She did store Top Secret materials on her personal server, and no amount of parsing can make that ok.
Hillary Clinton is as close to unelectable as a candidate of her stature can get. Americans don't like her and don't trust her. Everything she does--everything--makes Americans support her less. The more American see of her, the less they approve.
Yes, she is still the favorite to be the nominee, but that should cause the Democrats profound trepidation. I know that no liberal will accept this, but even Donald Trump could beat her. Marco Rubio will crush her. Remarkably, the Democrats best hope now is that Crazy Uncle Joe Biden will rescue them from the Evil Queen before the coronation. Yes, for all of the true leftists, Bernie Sanders is more electable than Hillary. Almost anyone is.
This will not get better. She did store Top Secret materials on her personal server, and no amount of parsing can make that ok.
4
First we hear that Hillary worked with Steven Spielberg to improve her image:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3250594/Hillary-Clinton-enlisted...
And now we have a puff piece where she spends time with the poster child for the narcissistic younger woman generation.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3250594/Hillary-Clinton-enlisted...
And now we have a puff piece where she spends time with the poster child for the narcissistic younger woman generation.
5
Just in case you weren't aware, the "narcissistic younger woman generation" votes. They are our future and the future of the planet. Secretary Clinton is aware of that and is smart to pay attention to them.
1
C'mon Frank it always comes to this. Candidates kissing babies. Clinton is not unique in having to participate in these folksy charades. She's better at it than some and worse than others. Can it ever be worse than that picture of Coolidge looking decidedly unhappy in an Indian war bonnet?
2
"I blame us in part".
As well you might. This is a story I would have missed if you had not written about it.
As well you might. This is a story I would have missed if you had not written about it.
3
She lied under oath to a Federal court about her email server. That's a felony. Felonies, like stains on a blue dress, don't go away easily. She won't be President. Bernie will. But she will be a celebrity.
6
Oh my, but this is getting tiresome. Could you please just report on what Hillary stands for instead of looking for all this poop to cast into the air. Hillary is the best thing we've got going. Think about it! Compare her to anyone else in the race on either side. I've not seen a single serious evaluation of her policy positions, just constant nit picking about her perfectly legal (as far as we know) use of personal e-mail and the bogus crap about Benghazi.
But lets beat her up so badly that we get a Donald Trump for President. That would be the sensible things to do now, wouldn't it?
But lets beat her up so badly that we get a Donald Trump for President. That would be the sensible things to do now, wouldn't it?
6
It would seems, with all the coverage Trump gets, he will be the anointed. Do you suppose the Times will endorse him?
Yet another "analysis" that's all about personality and style and not about policy. If she had a platform that inspired, the rest wouldn't matter. It seems that she lets Sanders stake out the high ground and then waters it down a month later. At any rate, reading the Times is an old habit, but I no longer expect to read much in the way of policy analysis here, let alone detailed comparisons of the candidates' proposals.
3
Each day I'm more disturbed at the trivial level of election coverage. Why not tell us what HRC stands for--her record on foreign involvement, increased military intervention, her firm promises to deliver yet more lethal weapons to a right-wing and imperialist Israel? Do lives not matter? Should we not all truly care what the policies of our future president will be?
The NYTimes never admits that most of her alleged progressive positions--on student debts, on the TPP, on the Keystone pipeline, on racial violence--are weaker versions of those firmly held by Bernie Sanders much earlier and that she has presumably moved an inch leftward to appeal to restless voters.
Come on, I dare you to cover the candidates' positions. If Trump wins--or Rubio, or Cruz, or Carson, ot Bush--the media has only itself to blame, but our country will suffer unimaginable self-destruction.
The NYTimes never admits that most of her alleged progressive positions--on student debts, on the TPP, on the Keystone pipeline, on racial violence--are weaker versions of those firmly held by Bernie Sanders much earlier and that she has presumably moved an inch leftward to appeal to restless voters.
Come on, I dare you to cover the candidates' positions. If Trump wins--or Rubio, or Cruz, or Carson, ot Bush--the media has only itself to blame, but our country will suffer unimaginable self-destruction.
5
It is truly remarkable to see the media dissect and parse every vowel Secretary of State Clinton has ever uttered while bozos like Donald Trump get a back slap and a pass from the media.
Trump claims everything will be fantastic under him, unbelievably good.
Do they ask about his 4 bankruptcies?
His schools that were closed for fraud?
The people who lost deposits thinking Trump stood behind various real estate projects that failed?
No, they don't.
They don't question his absurd, inexcusable remarks about women.
They don't question his racism and Archie Bunker bigotry.
They don't question his ridiculous economic or foreign policy plans, as if they think he is a slow child and it would be unfair to do so.
Cutting taxes on the rich will yield 6% growth and pay off the national debt?
Where have we heard that nonsense before?
Meanwhile, the media spends endless time asking the same questions of Mrs. Clinton and each one of the 55,000 emails she ever sent.
A double standard? That does not sufficiently explain the different treatment, though it certainly does partly.
The media is afraid of a loud mouth psychopathic man whose idiocy brings ratings, but are happy to dissect a sensible, well-reasoned professional woman.
As a citizen I find it appalling.
Trump claims everything will be fantastic under him, unbelievably good.
Do they ask about his 4 bankruptcies?
His schools that were closed for fraud?
The people who lost deposits thinking Trump stood behind various real estate projects that failed?
No, they don't.
They don't question his absurd, inexcusable remarks about women.
They don't question his racism and Archie Bunker bigotry.
They don't question his ridiculous economic or foreign policy plans, as if they think he is a slow child and it would be unfair to do so.
Cutting taxes on the rich will yield 6% growth and pay off the national debt?
Where have we heard that nonsense before?
Meanwhile, the media spends endless time asking the same questions of Mrs. Clinton and each one of the 55,000 emails she ever sent.
A double standard? That does not sufficiently explain the different treatment, though it certainly does partly.
The media is afraid of a loud mouth psychopathic man whose idiocy brings ratings, but are happy to dissect a sensible, well-reasoned professional woman.
As a citizen I find it appalling.
16
Exactly. The treatment of HRC so sexist. She must apologize for emails. She the woman MUST apologize. However, the man Trump receives hours and hours of free media coverage and not only is never called to apologize for his xenophobia and stupidity and arrogance, but is actually celebrated for stocking his finger to Anerica.
Another excellent post, than you. Soon, the Republicans will be asserting that sexism no longer exists, just as they say racism no longer exists, and this as they continue destroying women's rights to reproductive healthcare. Is it possible the NYT can't see its own sexism? I ask that question genuinely and with alarm.
It's not about personality or style Mr. Bruni. It's about ethics and conscience. Hillary is devoid of the qualities that people admire, and require in a true leader. She quite simply is not qualified to lead (and either are many of the other candidates at this point in time). Her attempts to act "progressive" are like Obama's, and just as dishonest. Her candidacy demonstrates the lack of depth of the Democratic Party. This is not the time for a lying war monger to be elected to office. Maybe Bernie Sanders would be different, but I fear that he is a stalking horse for HRC. If he ran as an Independent, then I would trust him. But saying he will support the eventual Dem nominee makes me distrust him.
2
great profile, she cant break who she is, that is her downfall.
If the DNC denies the progressive elements in the party their due, they should be looking at what is happening in the Republican party for a view of their future.
If the DNC denies the progressive elements in the party their due, they should be looking at what is happening in the Republican party for a view of their future.
1
The headline "Hillary" and "Pajama Party" is thoroughly cringeworthy and the tone is sexist. Imagine a headline with Sanders (or Rubio) and "Pajama party". She was Sec of State, first lady, and is running for president, for goodness sake. I'm also surprised that Mr. Bruni has joined the "Hillary as contrived and wooden" chorus. I'm sick of it, and it's making me warm up to her as I reflect on how strong a candidate she really is. Meanwhile I search in vain for serious reporting on her policies.
5
She is clearly THE most competent candidate, with the most experience. Stop trying to analyse every little thing. Can't we just go for the best qualified person?
Because it sure is not coming from the right.
Because it sure is not coming from the right.
4
Joe Biden, Bernie Sanders, Martin O'Malley, Lincoln Chafee and Jim Webb have more competence and experience than Hillary. And none of them is so ethically challenged with a long history of bad judgments. We should go for the "best qualified" person, and that surely is not Hillary. I've just named 5 Democrats who are more qualified.
Damn, who do you want, Frank? In 2015, is there anyone with her chops who has charisma and offers the promise of reliability in a world filled with known and unknown terrors? And if you or your fellow Hillary basher Ms. Dowd can identify such an individual does he or she have the commitment to actually run and face this horrifying gauntlet from the left, right and in between? I think not. So give it a rest. She is qualified, she is tough and she is better than EVERYONE actually running or thinking about it. Until there is someone better, she has my vote.
4
You forgot to mention that besides being "fiercely intelligent" Hillary is also an accomplished liar.
4
First Hillary was criticized for not doing enough media interviews and now she is being criticized for doing them. All the candidates are doing the "pop culture circuit" including chatting with Fallon, Colbert and the like. Why not try and reach the widest audience possible by doing all kinds of interviews? You might have also mentioned that Clinton demonstrated her serious policy chops by doing a sit down on Meet the Press this week.
Honestly, it would be refreshing if either HRC was
scrutinized half as much for her personality — or if the other candidates running were scrutinized just as much for theirs. I mean have you seen Jeb! On the stump? Talk about an identity crisis.
Honestly, it would be refreshing if either HRC was
scrutinized half as much for her personality — or if the other candidates running were scrutinized just as much for theirs. I mean have you seen Jeb! On the stump? Talk about an identity crisis.
4
HRC supporters like to decry the media's alleged "obsession" with Hillary's hair refusing to focus on her 'substance'. This is a candidate whose hairstyle, like her accent, changes every day depending on where she is. The last thing HRC or Bruni for that matter want to talk about is the "real Hillary".
Take Mr. Bruni's first sentence. He cites as facts accomplishments not in evidence. Her law "career" which ended up in a real estate swindle. Her "ambitious agenda as first lady" better described as a disastrous secret health care commission and stolen white house china. He celebrates her "industrious stint" in the Senate which apparently didn't include actually reading the NIE report before voting for the Iraq war. And "those years" (three-and-a-half) as SofS and "miles" as America's Number 1 Frequent Flier with nothing to show but a relationship with Russia worse than when she got there.
The reason we keep getting re-introduced to the "real Hillary" is precisely because it constantly keeps us focused on what she is not. If Bruni actually had to defend his presumption that HRC "does her homework" along with her superior intelligence, he'd come up short. The counter-evidence is just far more compelling.
Take Mr. Bruni's first sentence. He cites as facts accomplishments not in evidence. Her law "career" which ended up in a real estate swindle. Her "ambitious agenda as first lady" better described as a disastrous secret health care commission and stolen white house china. He celebrates her "industrious stint" in the Senate which apparently didn't include actually reading the NIE report before voting for the Iraq war. And "those years" (three-and-a-half) as SofS and "miles" as America's Number 1 Frequent Flier with nothing to show but a relationship with Russia worse than when she got there.
The reason we keep getting re-introduced to the "real Hillary" is precisely because it constantly keeps us focused on what she is not. If Bruni actually had to defend his presumption that HRC "does her homework" along with her superior intelligence, he'd come up short. The counter-evidence is just far more compelling.
2
Hillary Clinton's predictable and rather silly response to feedback about her persona demonstrates that she has none. Hard to call her "independent" and "strong" when she responds like a robot to every new instruction.
18
Plain vanilla has positive benefits! Some people don't interview well, but perform sensationally! Hillary is in this category. She wants it too much. But she will do good if she wins.
Given her record, the predictions of her success seem off target--she and Bill have pandered to Wall Street and to voters, she has forsaken her convictions, been too self-absorbed, and studied too many tea leaves. But the process and pursuit of the Presidency conceals her steel and toughness--qualities that will in full display if she wins.
Given her record, the predictions of her success seem off target--she and Bill have pandered to Wall Street and to voters, she has forsaken her convictions, been too self-absorbed, and studied too many tea leaves. But the process and pursuit of the Presidency conceals her steel and toughness--qualities that will in full display if she wins.
12
I watched a few minutes of Chris Hayes's interview with Al Gore last night with a touch of sadness, thinking: what if?
I know there is no way to prove that things would have been better under Gore than the person we "elected".
Still, the feeling persists that our nation would be in a much better place if the voters overlooked Gore's wooden, prissy demeanor and realized that you don't elect a president because you would like to have a beer and watch football with the person.
Let's try not to make the same mistake again next year.
I know there is no way to prove that things would have been better under Gore than the person we "elected".
Still, the feeling persists that our nation would be in a much better place if the voters overlooked Gore's wooden, prissy demeanor and realized that you don't elect a president because you would like to have a beer and watch football with the person.
Let's try not to make the same mistake again next year.
37
Of course she's controlled. Every word she says is parsed, compared to past statements for any (seeming) contradiction in meaning or tone (often by the over-eager media looking for the next headline), and a segment of the right-wing will simply transfer its considerable hatred of Obama to her (many already hate her, but it will get more vicious).
She has endured endless Congressional investigations, most of which after thousands of hours of 'hearings' (& millions of tax-payer $) go nowhere, but serve to keep an issue in the press and raise questions in the public mind. In a way, the Congressional hearing is the perfect political move for even the announcement that there WILL be a hearing suggests to the voters that there must be misdeeds, if not criminal behavior, here somewhere. When the hearing quietly ends two centuries later the political damage is done and the public never even notices that it came to nothing.
All that said, I am feeling adrift as a liberal voter. I do not think Sanders is electable; the others are not even a blip. Lately I've begun to feel a bit angry at Hillary because she has so much baggage, which she doesn't always handle well (the email). I fear that her air of inevitability has block others from running and that she, too, is not electable. Can we all say, President (Trump or Cruz or Rubio - doesn't matter, they're all nightmares)?
She has endured endless Congressional investigations, most of which after thousands of hours of 'hearings' (& millions of tax-payer $) go nowhere, but serve to keep an issue in the press and raise questions in the public mind. In a way, the Congressional hearing is the perfect political move for even the announcement that there WILL be a hearing suggests to the voters that there must be misdeeds, if not criminal behavior, here somewhere. When the hearing quietly ends two centuries later the political damage is done and the public never even notices that it came to nothing.
All that said, I am feeling adrift as a liberal voter. I do not think Sanders is electable; the others are not even a blip. Lately I've begun to feel a bit angry at Hillary because she has so much baggage, which she doesn't always handle well (the email). I fear that her air of inevitability has block others from running and that she, too, is not electable. Can we all say, President (Trump or Cruz or Rubio - doesn't matter, they're all nightmares)?
3
Oh come on Franky B. This is how all hipster nerd comedy shows featuring politicians go, whether it's this or Obama's poorly acted disgust at Zak Galafawhatever's unseen rash on Between Two Ferns. Is this really the best example of Hillary's legendary inauthenticity you could come up with?
11
Amen! I just took the time to google the interview - only a few clips are available - and found one with Clinton discussing the importance of but also the complexity involved in regulating our financial system. She is natural, warm, and very articulate discussing this complex issue.
Typical of snarky journalists who treat campaigns like competitions for prom king and queen Mr. Bruni ignores the substantive parts of the interview and only provides a link to her answering the Lenny Kravitz question - which she did with as much dignity as possible when this kind of thing is asked. Here is a clip of her discussing student loans - just one of several important topics she and Clinton discussed:
http://www.reuters.com/video/2015/09/25/lena-dunham-talks-student-loans-...
Mr. Bruni seems to think Hillary should not use this kind of venue to reach young women voters and use it as a chance to inform them on important issues and her positions. That is what politicians should do.
Typical of snarky journalists who treat campaigns like competitions for prom king and queen Mr. Bruni ignores the substantive parts of the interview and only provides a link to her answering the Lenny Kravitz question - which she did with as much dignity as possible when this kind of thing is asked. Here is a clip of her discussing student loans - just one of several important topics she and Clinton discussed:
http://www.reuters.com/video/2015/09/25/lena-dunham-talks-student-loans-...
Mr. Bruni seems to think Hillary should not use this kind of venue to reach young women voters and use it as a chance to inform them on important issues and her positions. That is what politicians should do.
1
Yes, it's the best he could come up with. Let's not forget, Mr. Bruni is the man who told us we'd be hearing a lot more from Marco Rubio.
Whether we like it or not, charisma and inspirational speeches are required to win a presidential election. When was out last non charismatic president? I would admire Hillary more old she were more honest wth her personality but also with her policy. She seems to change her mind with the tide. If she is more conservative than Bernie and has a reason for it, explain it well, we're listening. As it stands now she's pretty vague and doesn't expect voters to care about the details most of the time- hence the celebrity tweets.
But the main issue is super pad money. Nothing can be done once you sell your soul. I'm not sure using they get you, but they do.
But the main issue is super pad money. Nothing can be done once you sell your soul. I'm not sure using they get you, but they do.
3
Clinton should fire her advisers. This nonsense is reminiscent of Dukakis riding in a tank in 1988. Any presentation of a candidate that contradicts who she really is will not work. The voters aren't stupid, and the stunt will simply reinforce the opinion that she is dishonest. A modern consultant would probably have told FDR to try to appear more folksy, as a way of showing the voters he was one of them. FDR remained true to himself, and that was very appealing to the electorate.
Clinton's real problem is not her stuffiness, but her reputation for being devious. A useful consultant would candidly tell her to explain clearly and completely the facts in the so-called e-mail scandal. He would also admonish her and Bill to stop blaming the press and others for their own missteps.
It is not clear, however, that such a consultant would keep his job. Clinton wants the presidency so bad that she is willing to do anything except what is really necessary to win it.
Clinton's real problem is not her stuffiness, but her reputation for being devious. A useful consultant would candidly tell her to explain clearly and completely the facts in the so-called e-mail scandal. He would also admonish her and Bill to stop blaming the press and others for their own missteps.
It is not clear, however, that such a consultant would keep his job. Clinton wants the presidency so bad that she is willing to do anything except what is really necessary to win it.
4
A PRIVATE PERSON forced to be a public person is how Hillary impresses me. I think that every time somebody plays a nasty game of gotcha with her, she cringes as if it were the first time. She's learned to force herself to be a public person, but to me her heart is not in it. I believe that she just does not see the necessity of dignifying the garbage thrown at her by responding to it. She's got a strong point there. When I look at how she functioned as a Senator, Secretary of State and First Lady, I want to see how she uses her intelligence and professional acumen to find solutions to the myriad problems we confront as a nation and as a species. Hillary is admirably prepared for such work. To me her response when ridiculous claims are made against her, she comes across as, I'm a Lady. What are you talking about? Time was when such a response would have been met with respect. But the 24/7 media powers an unrelenting hunt for red meat and blood. Being highly educated and an intellectual, I understand that I'm in the minority. But I like Hillary just the way she is. Now if we could all be a little more like Mr. Rodgers neighborhood and less like Godzilla the Ape, the frame of the conversation would be more logical. One powerful advantage she carries with her is that Hillary could bring Bill back into the White House. He was one of the most popular and accomplished presidents, despite the with hunts to which he was subjected. What she needs is some respect!
6
Yes! I like her the way she is, too.
1
I'll vote for her, if she's the candidate, but I don't care for her. She has lousy organizational skills and the people she surrounds herself with are generally 2nd rate.
2
So you're ready to vote for someone who has "lousy organizational skills and surrounds herself with generally 2nd rate people"? Why not demand a better option?
2
Why does Hillary Rodham Clinton continually receive mulligans ("do overs") as she runs for the Presidency? We have known her well for over 25 years of exemplary (and sometimes hit or miss) publlic service, There is something very sad about Hillary Rodham Clinton's bowing to her advisers and managers and agreeing to a laugh-riot "pajama party" on TV with Lena Dunham and Amy Schumer. To reintroduce a warmer, more compassionate, authentic Hillary. We know her well. She is guarded, defensive but loves America and to parrot Abraham Lincoln, wants to "dance in the worst way" with us. There is no way to make Hillary more likeable and spontaneous and a laff-riot and appeal to the "niche bunch of progressive young women". Hillary has always been a controlling woman, defensive and unwilling to give us a peak into her "unguarded" self. There is a THERE there. We appreciate Mrs. Clinton's decades long public service in Arkansas, as First Lady of the US, as Senator from New York, as President Obama's Secretary of State. Hillary has won many races. If Mrs. Clinton would like to be Ms. Viral Cool Meme, the photo of her in military transport to Tripoli with shades on while she texts on her mobile phone (Diana Walker's seminal photo) is enough of a treat for progressive young women and any other niche audience Mrs. Clinton's advisers would like to win over. Otherwise fuggedabout a "pajama party" to show the lighter side of Hillary in a phony, jokey, staged video appearance.
3
I don't give a rip if she's entertaining, but care deeply if she's forthright and forthcoming; her perpetual aim on those scores seems to be directly at her foot.
I agree that she's vastly better than anyone on the Republican clown bus, but she makes it hard to vote FOR her instead of passively against her rivals.
Mr. Bruni, this was pretty shallow compared to your usual columns.
I agree that she's vastly better than anyone on the Republican clown bus, but she makes it hard to vote FOR her instead of passively against her rivals.
Mr. Bruni, this was pretty shallow compared to your usual columns.
10
You can't put lipstick on a pig. A leopard can't change its spots, or a zebra its stripes, or a humorless old lady her numerous lessens!
Http://www.periodictablet.com
Http://www.periodictablet.com
3
Yes, but if she would toss all the heavily engineered clothing and just let her broad beam fill half the page she would gain oodles of street cred.
I was asked if I "liked" Hillary. It is the wrong question. I love my country. I want the person most qualified and dedicated to lead it. The person other world leaders know and respect. the person with the best grasp of the world. Hillary leads all the other candidates by light years. She is a serious student and has been training for this position for years. I will vote for the democrat on the ticket, but I can't imagine any other candidate can offer the country what she can. Does she have to be cute and funny too?
30
"I love my country. I want the person most qualified and dedicated to lead it. The person other world leaders know and respect. the person with the best grasp of the world."
Let me guess: you voted for Obama? Ha!
Let me guess: you voted for Obama? Ha!
It feels like all those kids' afternoon specials in the 70s. Just be yourself, blah, blah, blah. And Ms. Clinton cannot seem to be herself no matter how hard her handlers try. Or perhaps her real self is simply wooden, controlling and lacking empathy? I don't know what else to think.
2
I suspect Hillary is an introvert by nature. I think if she owned up to that, her campaign would do much better. As it is she is trying to be something she is not.
7
I have no problems with Hillary Clinton's stiffness of style, which would be a superficial worry of no great import. But I am deeply opposed to her consistent support for incessant American wars and her consistent support for Wall Street banks and other malefactors of the American people. Surely we can find a woman to support for President who doesn't work against our interests.
5
Cut the woman some slack. It's hard to be genuine when you're a marionette whose every string is held by a different campaign donor. It's hard to be sincere when the only thing you sincerely believe in is your own ambition.
Yet, as much disappointment as I feel with Mrs. Clinton's candidacy, it doesn't measure up to the disappointment I felt reading this column. You always bemoan the prevailing news-as-entertainment tendencies in the media today (astonishingly, you even did it on this page!!), yet you've gone on a sexism-and-sophistry binge here that's hard to grapple with.
"Pajama Party"? I mean, really, Frank? You're a talented writer and it's painful to see you sinking to this adolescent squawking. I am just as bored and revolted by the constant re-re-re-re-reintroduction of Goldman Sachs's favorite sock-puppet. But at some point you need to learn to just roll your eyes and move on.
There are a lot of really, really important things to write about. If you're coming up blank, I'm sure your fellow columnist Nicholas Kristof has a book-full of worthy topics (or, here's a thought -- try typing these letters for a change: b e r n i e s a n d e r s). But don't reduce yourself to Wolf Blitzer™ Journalism.
Yet, as much disappointment as I feel with Mrs. Clinton's candidacy, it doesn't measure up to the disappointment I felt reading this column. You always bemoan the prevailing news-as-entertainment tendencies in the media today (astonishingly, you even did it on this page!!), yet you've gone on a sexism-and-sophistry binge here that's hard to grapple with.
"Pajama Party"? I mean, really, Frank? You're a talented writer and it's painful to see you sinking to this adolescent squawking. I am just as bored and revolted by the constant re-re-re-re-reintroduction of Goldman Sachs's favorite sock-puppet. But at some point you need to learn to just roll your eyes and move on.
There are a lot of really, really important things to write about. If you're coming up blank, I'm sure your fellow columnist Nicholas Kristof has a book-full of worthy topics (or, here's a thought -- try typing these letters for a change: b e r n i e s a n d e r s). But don't reduce yourself to Wolf Blitzer™ Journalism.
4
Campaigning does reveal a lot about a candidate's abilities in leading and managing a team; choosing advisors; developing a cohesive political strategy; and implementing that policy with strong political skills. These are all qualities that are necessary for a successful presidency.
What is shocking to me about both HRC's 2008 and current campaigns, is that after decades of political life, she is still so clueless about these political necessities. She doesn't run a good campaign; so much for leading and management skills. This also means that she doesn't gather or listen to strong advisors. And apparently, even after all those years of having the great example of Bill, she can't develop a successful political strategy, and muster the skills to make it work.
A person who hasn't mastered basic political skills, after decades of immersion in them, does not deserve our confidence.
What is shocking to me about both HRC's 2008 and current campaigns, is that after decades of political life, she is still so clueless about these political necessities. She doesn't run a good campaign; so much for leading and management skills. This also means that she doesn't gather or listen to strong advisors. And apparently, even after all those years of having the great example of Bill, she can't develop a successful political strategy, and muster the skills to make it work.
A person who hasn't mastered basic political skills, after decades of immersion in them, does not deserve our confidence.
5
So it's not enough for her to be smart and understand the issues that we face in this country and the world as well, she also has to be funny, warm, likeable and genuine? Do we have the same requirements for the male candidates running for president? People may not like her, but at least she's not insane like most of the GOP candidates.
16
What it boils down to is her habitual lying. Then again, she has an empty resume to boot.
1
Lets face it folks it's been a disaster. From the beginning of the campaign, from day one she has sounded contrived, even laboring to act like she wants this. I don't doubt her ambition but she hates, no HATES campaigning. Somehow, someway SHE needs to find her real voice. Hillary, take three days off and spend it contemplating your inner self, then either get it together or get out.
2
Have you read the interview in Lenny? It was informative, interesting, and addressed important topics. What's wrong with that?
7
It is very sad that Hillary's supporters are more in the nature of fans than discerning people. The fans complain & complain about the lousy press coverage with its focus on the email server as if the email server issue is totally irrelevant. The fans & the press also tout how "intelligent" Hillary is & yet none of those doing so really know her or have had an exchange with Hillary outside of a controlled environment as Hillary eschews real interviews where questions that have not been pre-secreend are asked.
So why should anyone focus on the email server? Because it is very revealing of Hillary the candidate & not the PR package Hillary wants the world to see. If Hillary were really intelligent, Hillary would have been able to directly address the email server question & it would have been dispatched forever. Instead Hillary engaged in polling to learn how to address it & has totally failed to end something that should have been over with long ago. The U.S. cannot afford a president who can't think her way out of something mundane as the challenges a president will face will not permit repeated attempts to get it right.
What Bill & Hillary are great at is giving speeches to the crowd willing to pay $250k per speech & getting them to pay that much or are they being paid for what they did for that crowd. Lots of deregulation for Wall Street; not so good for the 99%
So why should anyone focus on the email server? Because it is very revealing of Hillary the candidate & not the PR package Hillary wants the world to see. If Hillary were really intelligent, Hillary would have been able to directly address the email server question & it would have been dispatched forever. Instead Hillary engaged in polling to learn how to address it & has totally failed to end something that should have been over with long ago. The U.S. cannot afford a president who can't think her way out of something mundane as the challenges a president will face will not permit repeated attempts to get it right.
What Bill & Hillary are great at is giving speeches to the crowd willing to pay $250k per speech & getting them to pay that much or are they being paid for what they did for that crowd. Lots of deregulation for Wall Street; not so good for the 99%
4
So the gist here is that as a theater critic writing about performance art, Bruni unhappy with the artifice of the performance art. It's so artificial. And she's so defensive. If only she'd be unguarded around real, genuine, authentic people like Bruni who insist that they be shown the real, genuine, authentic Hillary, and moreover, that they know what the real, genuine, authentic one is.
There isn't a word in here about anything like actual policy, or political stances, or the positions of the alternative candidates. In the context of the North Carolina poll suggesting that a significant majority of the people questioned want to make Islam illegal, does it occur to the Times that maybe Mr. Bruni is in over his head when the best he brings to the very serious question of her insatiability for the presidency has the gravitas of high school snark?
The Times Op-Eds appall me these days.
There isn't a word in here about anything like actual policy, or political stances, or the positions of the alternative candidates. In the context of the North Carolina poll suggesting that a significant majority of the people questioned want to make Islam illegal, does it occur to the Times that maybe Mr. Bruni is in over his head when the best he brings to the very serious question of her insatiability for the presidency has the gravitas of high school snark?
The Times Op-Eds appall me these days.
16
I don't get the point of this. Any woman would have the kind of whimsical response Clinton had to Dunham's mention of Kravitz's junk.
Quoting one anonymous "Democratic operative," without explaining this person's relationship to Clinton, her husband, or both, is the only "proof" that people find this sort of thing inauthentic.
The more I read columns like this, the more sympathy I have for her.
Quoting one anonymous "Democratic operative," without explaining this person's relationship to Clinton, her husband, or both, is the only "proof" that people find this sort of thing inauthentic.
The more I read columns like this, the more sympathy I have for her.
15
Hillary is a good person and politician, but not a leader as she proved in her health care project and opposition to the Iraq war. In the Senate she accomplished less than most including Bernie.
She, Bill,and Obama sold out to the bankers.
She, Bill,and Obama sold out to the bankers.
3
For the record: Hillary voted for the Iraq War. Not the best qualifier in my book.
I agree. But would you want, a cool headed leader like Clinton or a hothead like Trump on the nuclear trigger.? You're right about Clinton's lack of charisma, but I would be quite content to spend 4 to 8 years resting in my seat instead of on the edge of it.
6
I actually think its awesome. This is for 20 year old's and not you Frank. Hilary is just putting herself out into the media where she wants to go, where voters actually know nothing about her. They were babies last time she ran 8 years ago. Could you just relax already? What are you voting for Trump/Rubio/Cruze?
5
I really don't care that the media call Hillary too calculated. Compared to who, exactly? The presidential race is a circus, and if some clowns seem looser on the surface, that doesn't impress me in the least. Hillary has more deep experience, well-rounded competence and temperament to be president than any other candidate in either party. That's why she's being subjected to this public crucifixion in the first place, and everyone knows it. The real scandal is that you in the media play along with this email farce, which is being used as a rationale to slowly, drip by drip, expose years of her messages to the public. Which other candidate is releasing years of emails? How would they look if you did to them what you're doing to Hillary? One of you reporters should make that point one of these days, but I'm not holding my breath. As a citizen, I can't wait for the day when I can register my disgust with this whole phony frame-up by pulling the lever for Hillary.
12
I wouldn't be so dismissive of the "audition" component of presidential campaigning. A leader has to lead, not just master policy details. Presidents have to inspire people in the United States and around the world; they have to instill confidence in democracy and redefine what it means to be an American. A person who relies on focus groups to figure out what his vision is will flounder when it counts--when strength of action and resolute determination are required to shape history. There are plenty of better Democrat alternatives to Mrs. Clinton.
1
Here's what I would have said if I was Hilary:
"A guy with his stuff falling out of his pants? You think I'm impressed by that? Have you forgotten who I'm married to?"
She would have gotten my vote.
"A guy with his stuff falling out of his pants? You think I'm impressed by that? Have you forgotten who I'm married to?"
She would have gotten my vote.
2
You got it right right here Mr. Bruni, "It’s devoid of soul and sweep, a series of labored gestures and precisely staked positions. Constituency by constituency, leftward adjustment by leftward adjustment, she and her aides slog and muscle their way forward."
This is the heart of Ms. Clinton's problem. At one time she may have had things that she actually believed in. Unfortunately since then all she has believed in and acted upon has been to acquire more money and power for Hillary.
She is now recognized by the majority as a poll driven shape shifter. The neo-liberal, free the financial sector, mass incarceration policies and Defense of Marriage initiated by her husband, and supported by her at the time, morphed into uber hawk Hillary as Sec State. Now she is being dragged incrementally leftward in reaction to polls.
Hillary has to "keep introducing herself" because there is only a constantly changing Hillary relentlessly pursuing money and power for Hillary. She doesn't stand for anything and it is increasingly apparent to all but those that write for the New York Times.
This is the heart of Ms. Clinton's problem. At one time she may have had things that she actually believed in. Unfortunately since then all she has believed in and acted upon has been to acquire more money and power for Hillary.
She is now recognized by the majority as a poll driven shape shifter. The neo-liberal, free the financial sector, mass incarceration policies and Defense of Marriage initiated by her husband, and supported by her at the time, morphed into uber hawk Hillary as Sec State. Now she is being dragged incrementally leftward in reaction to polls.
Hillary has to "keep introducing herself" because there is only a constantly changing Hillary relentlessly pursuing money and power for Hillary. She doesn't stand for anything and it is increasingly apparent to all but those that write for the New York Times.
3
It's pathetic that an incredibly accomplished,qualified and obviously very intelligent middle aged woman who is certainly likable enough should be criticized for being too wooden and boring. Some shallow observers may prefer the completely inane albeit entertaining ramblings of a Donald Trump, but what, after all, is this all about? There's an important job at the center of this, and I'll go for the serious, prepared candidate every time over the class clown. Remember W?
9
As a member of the target demographic, I enjoyed Lena Dunham's interview. I don't care if it was "canned." I normally enjoy Mr. Bruni's columns but this one struck me as self-serving. Why must Hillary be attacked constantly for the innocuous? There is an undertone of misogyny in attacking women for things that are frivolous. Criticize her for her policy, etc. When you start to criticize her mannerisms, you tread into sexist territory. Territory where women are not only expected to be smart and work harder than everyone else but to also look perfect and sound perfect while doing it.
7
I always had the feeling that Obama had really smart campaign team behind him. I always get the feeling that Hillary has a mediocre team. If she doesn't get a better team I think she'll lose. Scary thought, because there's so much at stake.
1
The one thing she has going for her is that her opponents in the republican party are the most ridiculous sociopathic personalities ever assembled in a modern democracy.
3
The problem with Hillary is she believes in nothing other than her entitlement to this nation's highest office. She is a mediocre campaigner at best, almost the anti-Bill Clinton who was the best retail politician of our age. Add to that the Nixonian way she deals with criticism or challenges of any kind. This makes her a hard sell to the public. I seriously doubt banter about Lenny Kravitz's junk will help her connect.
4
I I don't understand the New York Times anymore. I realize that this is an opinion column, but the sexism is quite blatant. Enough Clinton bashing please!
7
Keep it up Democrats. Denigrate and destroy the one candidate the Republicans actually fear and spend money attacking. Bruni of course, is the one whose column, "You'll be hearing a lot more about Marco Rubio," from March(!) still sits on the NYT Opinion Page. I don't want to have a beer with HRC or fall in love with her style and panache. I want her to take her outstanding experience, intelligence, and true Democratic Party credentials to the White House.
12
HRC has worked hard for lots of years. I admire her for that and I can see that she's tired now. The fire is gone. If she continues in this race for President she's going to regret it whether she wins or loses. Her heart won't be in it, not at all.
1
How can anyone expect Hillary to be unguarded after ripping into her for 20 years. She is going to have some walls. Big deal. Any other politician would have folded, and lived a life of ease by now, but she has persevered and continues to serve the common good in true democratic fashion. She has been a pragmatist throughout her career. And while I am glad Bernie Sanders is in the race to keep the political pull to the left, I have no doubt that she is, too. This country needs it.
13
Oh dear, Mr. Bruni, what were you thinking with this headline? The woman has enough gravitas and experience in world affairs to wipe the floor with most of her competitors and you chose to demean her by suggesting she's having a pajama party? I hope upon rethinking this headline, you are ashamed of yourself for such a cheap trick. You needn't like her but please show some respect.
7
All this is just another version of the idiotic GW Bush supporters who voted for him because he "seemed like the kind of guy you'd like to have a beer with."
Making penis jokes won't make you a good president.
Dancing on Ellen won't make you a good president.
I don't know who I hate more, the pandering politicians or the electorate - in this case Millenials - who would probably support Hillary because they saw her with Amy Schumer.
Dang it, I want my presidential candidates to be presidential. Is that too much to ask? Does anyone even know what that is anymore?
Making penis jokes won't make you a good president.
Dancing on Ellen won't make you a good president.
I don't know who I hate more, the pandering politicians or the electorate - in this case Millenials - who would probably support Hillary because they saw her with Amy Schumer.
Dang it, I want my presidential candidates to be presidential. Is that too much to ask? Does anyone even know what that is anymore?
4
To all you Hillary supporters out there. Not sure if FB is one or not but here's the deal. You think she is smart and accomplished? Really? What proof is there for either proposition? Aside from... let's see, I'm sure there's something, what is it exactly has she done except run for office. She couldn't polish George C. Marshall's boots as SOS and as a senator -- well, I suppose convincing the people of NY to elect you is something. But really, she's really riding Bill's coattails and the hope that identity politics will again triumph.
Up against that, what do we have? Scandal after scandal. Ignore the e-mail situation at your peril. It was out of bounds, Hillary centric and to top it off she's lied about it. And that may not be the biggest current scandal she faces. The Clinton foundation operation is, shall we say, a potential death star for her campaign.
And face it, Bernie can't win, Biden doesn't really want it, and most voters don't want him either. So if I were a democrat (OMG, the horror, the horror) I'd be looking for another candidate.
Up against that, what do we have? Scandal after scandal. Ignore the e-mail situation at your peril. It was out of bounds, Hillary centric and to top it off she's lied about it. And that may not be the biggest current scandal she faces. The Clinton foundation operation is, shall we say, a potential death star for her campaign.
And face it, Bernie can't win, Biden doesn't really want it, and most voters don't want him either. So if I were a democrat (OMG, the horror, the horror) I'd be looking for another candidate.
2
Hillary was smart and wise enough to marry and stay with the serial adulterer draft dodging pot smoking immoral degenerate William Jefferson Clinton.
Hillary is smart and wise enough to be running for POTUS against the Republican 2016 parade of dwarves, stooges, buffoons and clowns.
Democrats have won a majority of the POTUS popular vote in 5 out of 6 of the last elections. Simple arithmetic and science are endemic Republican realms of ignorance.
Hillary is smart and wise enough to be running for POTUS against the Republican 2016 parade of dwarves, stooges, buffoons and clowns.
Democrats have won a majority of the POTUS popular vote in 5 out of 6 of the last elections. Simple arithmetic and science are endemic Republican realms of ignorance.
This column is just the latest in the unrelenting series of ad hominem (feminam?) attacks on Hillary by the NYT and other media outlets who are determined to either run her out of the race or at least knock her down a few pegs.
As Bill Clinton said on CNN last week, she began the year in the polls as the most admired woman in America and then the campaign season started and the GOP and media attacks began. Every story on her is negative and adversarial without any pretense at objectivity or balance or issues, designed to present her always in the worst possible light.
The most shameful tactic of all by the political media is the whole phony Draft Biden movement. Unhappy with a boring two-person race focused on the issues, the media arbitrarily created a three-person race with an unannounced candidate and began polling on that basis. When some of Hillary's support inevitably shifted to Biden in the mythical three-person race, the shift was reported as a "fall" in her support. We can only hope that the campaign coverage will improve as time goes on.
As Bill Clinton said on CNN last week, she began the year in the polls as the most admired woman in America and then the campaign season started and the GOP and media attacks began. Every story on her is negative and adversarial without any pretense at objectivity or balance or issues, designed to present her always in the worst possible light.
The most shameful tactic of all by the political media is the whole phony Draft Biden movement. Unhappy with a boring two-person race focused on the issues, the media arbitrarily created a three-person race with an unannounced candidate and began polling on that basis. When some of Hillary's support inevitably shifted to Biden in the mythical three-person race, the shift was reported as a "fall" in her support. We can only hope that the campaign coverage will improve as time goes on.
12
Hillary Clinton is as phony as she is presented here .. She is ridiculous yet Bruni concludes his piece by complimenting her. For what trying to manipulate voters with her nonsense. Read Bruni's own words about Clinton's manufactured reality ..
"How can her response to charges that she’s too packaged and calculating be this packaged and calculated? And to counter her image as entrenched political royalty, why would she enlist stars whose presence merely emphasizes her pull with, and membership in, the glittery world of celebrity?"
“Insane,” said one Democratic operative when I sought his reaction.
"How can her response to charges that she’s too packaged and calculating be this packaged and calculated? And to counter her image as entrenched political royalty, why would she enlist stars whose presence merely emphasizes her pull with, and membership in, the glittery world of celebrity?"
“Insane,” said one Democratic operative when I sought his reaction.
4
How can a political party that calls itself "Democrats" hold a coronation instead of primary elections?
No more Bushes, No More Clintons.
How hard is that for voters to grasp, and reporters to cover?
No more Bushes, No More Clintons.
How hard is that for voters to grasp, and reporters to cover?
6
So let me get this straight:
Donald Trump is a thrice married cheater who has delclared bankruptcy and freely admits he tries to pay the least amount of taxes ever..... His hair is ridiculous. His favorite word is "Stupid", which is quite reflective and ironic in too many ways to enumerate. He perpetuated fraud via his Trump University, was owner of a pagent where women were judge by their body parts---and HILLARY CLINTON IS THE PROBLEM?????
Because why exactly???
Donald Trump is a thrice married cheater who has delclared bankruptcy and freely admits he tries to pay the least amount of taxes ever..... His hair is ridiculous. His favorite word is "Stupid", which is quite reflective and ironic in too many ways to enumerate. He perpetuated fraud via his Trump University, was owner of a pagent where women were judge by their body parts---and HILLARY CLINTON IS THE PROBLEM?????
Because why exactly???
12
I've been reading quite a bit of campaign coverage in this newspaper and, other than Trump's ridiculous tax proposal I still have only vague ideas of where the candidates stand on policy issues. The coverage is all about the image and the spectacle. This, from a supposedly serious publication. And we wonder why our political system is a mess.
13
In terms of keeping the country going and getting a few things fixed, Hillary is so far beyond the Republicans that comparing them is an exercise in the absurd. In terms of addressing root problems, only Bernie is willing and able to put issues together and see broad patterns, and he has been able to win a lot of trust and affection from the voters of Vermont.
Tricky Dicky also had trouble with spontaneity and not projecting images, but he was able to get reelected against an opponent who was what he was.
Tricky Dicky also had trouble with spontaneity and not projecting images, but he was able to get reelected against an opponent who was what he was.
10
I am a Democrat and not a big fan of Hillary. I didn't vote for her in the last primary and will not in this one. However, the NYTimes has done everything in it's power to put her down since the first time she ran for office. Even Charlie Rose, who I no longer watch, would chuckle at the mention of her name.
How many male candidates have appeared on SNL and never was there a harsh word written about them? Was this the best move for her? I don't know. Is she a great campaigner? Not by any means. But I do know Fiorina comes across as more packaged and calculating and frankly scares me. But perish the thought about someone who lost billions of shareholders' money and laid off hard-working Americans to help cover the losses of her failed leadership be put under the same microscope you put Hillary.
How many male candidates have appeared on SNL and never was there a harsh word written about them? Was this the best move for her? I don't know. Is she a great campaigner? Not by any means. But I do know Fiorina comes across as more packaged and calculating and frankly scares me. But perish the thought about someone who lost billions of shareholders' money and laid off hard-working Americans to help cover the losses of her failed leadership be put under the same microscope you put Hillary.
26
The great left-wing NYT conspiracy against Scheme Clinton?
1
Ok, now you've done Hiliary. Please do one on Bernie Sanders. I frankly find Hiliary's move to the left in recent times pretty phony. We know she is a neoliberal. I want a true progressive. Many others do too. This is why Sanders is rising so quickly with little exposure from the mainstream media or coporate media.
35
@Carolyn—you have it completely backwards. The reson that Sanders is "rising" is because he gets little exposure meaning that he gets absolutely no scrutiny of criticism from the media. Zero. The press never bothers to put Sanders voting record, accomplishements (or lack thereof), his personal life under a microscope the way that they do for Clinton or some of the other candidates. So yes please Frank, do a critical snarky piece on Sanders so that we know that the press actually takes him seriously as a viable candidate.
I don't think Bruni is even capable of mentioning Sanders name.
2
Hillary is as phony as a $3 bill.
But how did the Democratic POTUS field end up being so old and white?
Bernie talks about marching with Dr. King who has been dead for nearly 50 years. Even Jesse and Al are ancient history to many a millennial particularly the rising Black Lives Matter cohort. Sanders claims to be a socialist. What does that mean in terms of his elected leadership past? What does it mean for his future?
Blacks have been the victims of mass incarceration, welfare deformation and voter suppression. And what has Bernie done for blacks lately? What does Bernie plan for a black future of divine natural equal certain unalienable rights?
But how did the Democratic POTUS field end up being so old and white?
Bernie talks about marching with Dr. King who has been dead for nearly 50 years. Even Jesse and Al are ancient history to many a millennial particularly the rising Black Lives Matter cohort. Sanders claims to be a socialist. What does that mean in terms of his elected leadership past? What does it mean for his future?
Blacks have been the victims of mass incarceration, welfare deformation and voter suppression. And what has Bernie done for blacks lately? What does Bernie plan for a black future of divine natural equal certain unalienable rights?
The philosopher-emperor Marcus Aurelius began his Meditations with a little self-analysis, confessing that he was "lacking in natural affection." Yet he was probably Rome's greatest ruler. If the biggest problem with Hillary Clinton is that she lacks spontaneity, the United States would be fortunate indeed to have her as President.
46
Unfortunately, Hillary's biggest problem is not just that she "lacks natural affection," it's that she is constantly twisting herself into a pretzel in order to be what she thinks other people want her to be. She's so consumed with the optics of every situation, she comes off as unnatural and over-rehearsed.
Hillary is a smart woman with a lot to offer, she would probably make a good president, certainly far better than any of the Republican candidates. Let's hope she sorts herself out - and the sooner the better.
Hillary is a smart woman with a lot to offer, she would probably make a good president, certainly far better than any of the Republican candidates. Let's hope she sorts herself out - and the sooner the better.
4
That's not her biggest problem. Her biggest problem is that people think she's a liar, and once people think that about someone, they quit listening.
The biggest problem is not spontaneity. It is secrecy, untruthfulness, and unhinged thirst for money.
And you got your degree in Psychology from where, California State Atascadero, or Matteawan State in New York?
16
One might wonder why Bernie Sanders is not accorded the press coverage given to Hillary's scripted love-in or the debacle of Donald Trump. In my view the media, the media establishment, the political establishment and the 1% (who are likely less interested in who's elected than is supposed) all fear Senator Sanders: he might bring about change that none want but the 99% and is feared, in the pit of their guts, by the "entitled nonentities" who want business as usual.
38
I'm far, far, away from the 1%, just happy I have a job and can feed my family, and I fear Bernie Sanders.
Yes, Joe, a single-payer universal healthcare system that has proved workable throughout the West is terrifying just as is a free college/graduate school system so that students don't start life burdened with hundreds of thousands in debt. The right to a living wage so that Government doesn't subsidize the oppressive employment practices of Walmart and McDonald's transferring your tax dollars to billionaires should be scary -- for the billionaires. The right to organize and collectively bargain is revolutionary if you're a 19th century predatory capitalist. A tax system where billionaires pay more than their individual employees should be of deep concern to those who are actually taxed and have no places to hide. Finally, the outright stupidity of Citizens United and Hobby Lobby, granting person hood to corporate charters at the expense of living people is something to celebrate while you're chained to the 1% running the show.
1
I saw some photographs of Chelsea Clinton in a magazine in a doctor's waiting room recently, and I was really put off by what comes across to me as a dynasty-celebrity thing -- would Chelsea Clinton be featured as she was on the basis of her own accomplishments alone? And that for me cast a deeper shadow over my misgivings about Hillary Clinton. It's not that these people don't have talents, but I feel I am being asked to upgrade my appraisal of them based on their association with another family member. I think it makes it harder to get to know them and perhaps even have a positive reaction to who they actually are -- the relationship between them and us needs to grow piecemeal from little things to big, and with the Clintons who are not Bill we seem to have been expected to embrace them all at once. I think there's something missing for those of us who did not feel the call of the "Ready for Hillary" cry, and we are waiting for that to be filled in in a compelling way.
21
I confess that I don't know who Lenny Kravitz is and I don't see its relevance. This interview wouldn't be news if Mr. Bruni and others weren't repeating what was said.
I want a candidate who is qualified to lead, to champion policies that solve the problems of this country, to work for the people instead of wealthy corporations, and deal intelligently with the Congress. The New York Times, not People magazine, is where I go to find out whether the candidates meet my standards. I suspect I'm not the only one who feels this way.
I want a candidate who is qualified to lead, to champion policies that solve the problems of this country, to work for the people instead of wealthy corporations, and deal intelligently with the Congress. The New York Times, not People magazine, is where I go to find out whether the candidates meet my standards. I suspect I'm not the only one who feels this way.
46
Oh good greid! ANother Hillary is inauthentic column. If pundits liek yourself would spend more time on policy and less on personality, the public might be better informed as to what is at stake in the next election.
The last time the press did this with Al Gore, we ended up with G.W. and we know how well that ended.
The last time the press did this with Al Gore, we ended up with G.W. and we know how well that ended.
154
I think you're misunderstanding the article - he's saying just what you're advocating for. He's lamenting the fact that she's constantly told to 'be authentic', he's chastising the campaign for trying so hard to show she has a personality, and saying that we all, including and especially the media, created this. Read a bit more carefully!
Yes -- it is so reminiscent of the garbage they did to Gore. Scandal -- some silly consultant gave him advice on what clothes to wear. Who gives a flying _____? And then after putting the incompetent, evil George W. Bush in the White House, the press suddenly decides it's all sweetness and light with Gore and global warming. It shows you the criticism was never about anything real.
1
I like that she isn't warm and fuzzy. She is smart and awkward. Gore Vidal said that he had a photo of John F. Kennedy, Jr. on his wall to remind him not to be swayed by charming politicians. He adored Kennedy, but didn't think he was a great president.
30
She is smart and awkward.
=========
And dishonest. And money-grubbing.
=========
And dishonest. And money-grubbing.
She may be the single most fake human being alive. You get the feeling that even in the moments we don't see her, getting out of bed and brushing her teeth, its all contrived and choreographed with some deceitful intent.
She's Richard Nixon without the genuine political and policy instincts that made him effective when paranoia, insecurity, anger and vindictiveness wasn't undermining him. She's RN without the virtues he developed in creating himself; she's the creation of her husband and a gang of Democratic insiders, propped up by vile reptilians like Sidney Blumenthal and David Brock.
She's Richard Nixon without the genuine political and policy instincts that made him effective when paranoia, insecurity, anger and vindictiveness wasn't undermining him. She's RN without the virtues he developed in creating himself; she's the creation of her husband and a gang of Democratic insiders, propped up by vile reptilians like Sidney Blumenthal and David Brock.
28
Yes, Nixon without the political instincts.
H.C.'s campaign troubles are rooted in the same rigid self-aggrandizement that wrecked her health care initiative during B.C.'s presidency. We saw it again in her reaction to the Benghazi nonsense: Yes, the Benghazi affair was a Republican cheap shot, but it worked because of how H.C. reacted. The e-mail issues is a little different: It is a real issue stemming from H.C.'s bad judgment, and she has made it worse by the way she (mis)handled it.
So what would she be like as President?
Run, Joe, run.
H.C.'s campaign troubles are rooted in the same rigid self-aggrandizement that wrecked her health care initiative during B.C.'s presidency. We saw it again in her reaction to the Benghazi nonsense: Yes, the Benghazi affair was a Republican cheap shot, but it worked because of how H.C. reacted. The e-mail issues is a little different: It is a real issue stemming from H.C.'s bad judgment, and she has made it worse by the way she (mis)handled it.
So what would she be like as President?
Run, Joe, run.
Nixon, on the beach, in a pantsuit.
Interesting. Have you seen any coverage or conversation with Blumenthal and Brock? NYT, and other media outlets, never interview these people...behind People. These hidden "people" are sometimes the biggest players, gainers, and manipulators in politics. And sometimes they are the hidden government.
If these journalists, in stead of being presstitutes, can access them, reveal them, and all the strings they pull or push behind candidates, there would be a million dollar book of truths people would want to buy.
Instead, we have gone from "Cult of Personalities to Media constructed Personalities to Media Picking Personalities to Personalities of Entertainment and Likeability" in our Politics.
Hope the sane world outside our nation is not following this kind of garbage politics!
If these journalists, in stead of being presstitutes, can access them, reveal them, and all the strings they pull or push behind candidates, there would be a million dollar book of truths people would want to buy.
Instead, we have gone from "Cult of Personalities to Media constructed Personalities to Media Picking Personalities to Personalities of Entertainment and Likeability" in our Politics.
Hope the sane world outside our nation is not following this kind of garbage politics!
It is a long way still to election day, and that is when to peak.
6
Hillary peaked in 1992.
I'm a Sanders supporter, but given the pack of jackals the Republicans have loosed on us I am prepared to hold my nose and vote for Hillary in the general election, if it comes to that.
29
All right already - enough. If the press wants politicians to talk about policy then stop focusing on everything but! Whatever shortcomings Hillary Clinton may possess, whatever email errors she may have committed, are nothing compared to the calamity that would befall this nation if any one of the Republican slate were to be elected president. Frank, I challenge you to become the first columnist to foreswear writing about anything other than the real policy issues that differentiate the potential candidates, and the long-term effects that a Republican triumvirate - executive-legislative-judicial - would have on the United States.
77
Whatever shortcomings Hillary Clinton may possess, whatever email errors she may have committed, are nothing compared to the calamity that would befall this nation if any one of the Republican slate were to be elected president.
============
Hillary stinks but they stink worse.
Now there's a campaign slogan to rally around!!
============
Hillary stinks but they stink worse.
Now there's a campaign slogan to rally around!!
1
Gary....well said....'Frank, I challenge you to become the first columnist to foreswear writing about anything other than the real policy issues that differentiate the potential candidates',
But if Bruni wrote about issues, where would it lead? He'd have to mention Sanders eventually. Can't go there.
But if Bruni wrote about issues, where would it lead? He'd have to mention Sanders eventually. Can't go there.
Hillary has the most substantial policy brief of any candidate, including new initiatives. She has experience at the highest levels of both the legislative and executive branches of government. And acquitted herself well. But the press and the media could not care less. A complete buffoon like Trump gets all of the coverage(mostly positive) for his over the top crassness and bold but baseless assertions with virtually no substantive positions beyond "elect me, it will be wonderful."
I agree with Mr. Bruni that Hillary's campaign is pretty tone deaf in announcing that her new strategy is to look more human, ugh, by appearing with celebrities and making jokes. On the other hand, being a serious candidate was not working, either. She needs a David Axelrod to guide her campaign. As politically savvy as Bill is, he's too close to Hillary and can't give her the kind of critique that another adept campaign manager could. He helped Obama in the last election with some well turned phrases; maybe Obama will give Hillary a boost, at least help with turnout. I think that Hillary will get the nod for the nomination. After that, it has to be all hands on deck.
I agree with Mr. Bruni that Hillary's campaign is pretty tone deaf in announcing that her new strategy is to look more human, ugh, by appearing with celebrities and making jokes. On the other hand, being a serious candidate was not working, either. She needs a David Axelrod to guide her campaign. As politically savvy as Bill is, he's too close to Hillary and can't give her the kind of critique that another adept campaign manager could. He helped Obama in the last election with some well turned phrases; maybe Obama will give Hillary a boost, at least help with turnout. I think that Hillary will get the nod for the nomination. After that, it has to be all hands on deck.
29
Hilary is the most intelligent and hardest working candidate for the Presidency. The rest is just tedious. If she is nominated she will be very good debating any of the Republicans I see.
54
I guess, WE have to make Hillary at peace with herself. We blame her for her lack of lovey-dovey stuff. It is damned if you do, damned if you don't situation that she is forever facing, thanks to US. A good leader has to be intelligent rather than charming and a dud. Remember potatoe, the VP candidate? And as you say Hillary is fiercely intelligent. She is accused for changing colors like the chameleon. Of course she will. A politician has to evolve just like her stand on gays. When you look at the Candidates throughout the spectrum ( Republican and Democratic ) she seems to be the only one sane, pragmatic and with a real plan. So let her be, if we know what's good for us and not force her to go into the realm of Lenny Kravitz. She reminds me of another terrific Candidate whose poll ratings were low because he appeared wooden. Had we got that piece of wood we would have been in another stratosphere, our Planet green and no wars. Let's remember that!
33
Bravo! It's a good time to remember Al Gore and imagine not having had war and continually hyped reminders of 11 September 2001.
1
Let's remember that she is older. How off the cuff should she look trading comments with Lena Dunham? How casual talking about Lenny Kravitz mishap? She is not running for a spot in the Groundlings, or stand-up at the improv. Let's leave that to her pajama party pal actresses. Kudos to HRC for throwing her hat in and trying. So what if she came off more like Nixon in drag.
I haven't seen the video, but I am guessing it comes off like celebrities do when they talk to Muppets--HRC being the celebrity, Dunham and co. the Muppets. The celebrities come off all wooden, communicating to children with this fake facade, staring into an animated Muppet face, smiling awkwardly, possibly looking at the real person below controlling the Muppet. It's not in HRC's element to talk to these Muppets/celebrities. Bill could make a Muppet look real, disarm a Muppet--HRC, not so much.
I'll give her a pass on this contrived effort. I am more interested in how she deals with Putin and Netanyahu and Merkel and ISIS and all the important issues at hand.
I haven't seen the video, but I am guessing it comes off like celebrities do when they talk to Muppets--HRC being the celebrity, Dunham and co. the Muppets. The celebrities come off all wooden, communicating to children with this fake facade, staring into an animated Muppet face, smiling awkwardly, possibly looking at the real person below controlling the Muppet. It's not in HRC's element to talk to these Muppets/celebrities. Bill could make a Muppet look real, disarm a Muppet--HRC, not so much.
I'll give her a pass on this contrived effort. I am more interested in how she deals with Putin and Netanyahu and Merkel and ISIS and all the important issues at hand.
300
Me, too, but no "journalists" will inquire about anything besides e-mail. It's a shame.
1
PE, I'm surprised you chose not to watch the clip (it's very short) before commenting. It's not that she's wooden (she is) or the sketch contrived (very), it's that the whole skit is about Lenny Kravitz' penis. Why didn't her campaign just ask Lena and co. to come up with another skit? It's not like this was especially funny, it wasn't. Or timely. Or relevant. This may or may not find traction with the Republicans, but it was a new low for political humor. It shows how completely out of touch with America she is. A woman without a social compass. It is not irrelevant.
@Brad: I just watched the video. I don't think we should be judging Hillary on her slapstick appearances. The slapstick dynamic is not her forte. That bit was a lead-in for "Lenny", a promotion for a very serious print interview. Bruni skates over the interview to focus on the Kravitz bit. Let's focus on the serious stuff. Hillary agreeing to some tame sketch scene with Lena is fine by me. Bruni focusing on slapstick controlled by Dunham, edited by Dunham, and not her interview--what she actually said!--is irresponsible, not fine by me. We American's are too uptight and should be able to handle a penus joke by a leader. All of Europe would not care. American's should not care about a 10 second, highly edited Lena Dunham joke. This is a non-issue.
"She is fiercely intelligent but, yes, wildly defensive. She does her homework with uncommon diligence and earnestness but can be a dud on the stump. She’s impressively controlled. She’s distressingly controlling."
Yes, she's Tracy Flick. We get it. And thanks, Frank, for blaming "us, in part". I hope that royal we translates to "you, the columnists and blogerati" because I'm not clamoring for a more HBO-friendly HRC. She had me at "Secretary of State".
Yes, she's Tracy Flick. We get it. And thanks, Frank, for blaming "us, in part". I hope that royal we translates to "you, the columnists and blogerati" because I'm not clamoring for a more HBO-friendly HRC. She had me at "Secretary of State".
44
Just how real does a presidential candidate (or a president, for that matter) have to be? Take, for example, everyone else running for presidential candidacy (please!). It seems to me that HRC is realer than any of them, even though she may be less real than thou and I.
And criticizing a political candidate for...contrivance? Give me a break.
I realize that the NY Times appears to be taking every opportunity to find a negative side to anything that a Clinton does or has done to them, but I for one wish you guys would just give it a rest for a while. Surely there's way more to go after among the other..what is it—16? 17?—candidates if you just give it some attention.
And criticizing a political candidate for...contrivance? Give me a break.
I realize that the NY Times appears to be taking every opportunity to find a negative side to anything that a Clinton does or has done to them, but I for one wish you guys would just give it a rest for a while. Surely there's way more to go after among the other..what is it—16? 17?—candidates if you just give it some attention.
36
Mr Bruni, please lighten up on Sec Clinton. You are WAY overthinking her every move.
38
"But for Clinton? It’s a contrivance . . ?"
Apparently, you need to be a male billionaire Republican Hollywood entertainer or else "It’s a contrivance."
Apparently, you need to be a male billionaire Republican Hollywood entertainer or else "It’s a contrivance."
30
Probably about time we stopped complaining about how scripted and dull Hillary can be. She has a ton more to lose than she has to win, and this will continue to be the case unless someone is more successful than Bernie or Liz at threatening her on the left. When companies have a ton more to lose than they have to win, such as an Exxon as opposed to a start-up, you don’t see a lot of experimentation in messaging. It’s really only the upstarts that NEED to appear on Ellen.
It’s a pity that when Amy Chozick interviewed Hillary’s senior aides, she didn’t ask Huma, Cheryl, Jake and others whether they’d turned over ALL their Hillary emails yet to State and the FBI, and whether or not they’d heard anything yet about indictments.
I liked the email asking her longtime aide, Capricia Marshall, about the availability of “carved” Chinese rugs she’d seen on a visit to China with the president – I have one myself. But better than that would be a smoking gun that delivered instructions to Susan Rice for explaining Benghazi during the 2012 election: “Punt until the Ohio returns come in!”
It’s a pity that when Amy Chozick interviewed Hillary’s senior aides, she didn’t ask Huma, Cheryl, Jake and others whether they’d turned over ALL their Hillary emails yet to State and the FBI, and whether or not they’d heard anything yet about indictments.
I liked the email asking her longtime aide, Capricia Marshall, about the availability of “carved” Chinese rugs she’d seen on a visit to China with the president – I have one myself. But better than that would be a smoking gun that delivered instructions to Susan Rice for explaining Benghazi during the 2012 election: “Punt until the Ohio returns come in!”
4
I am so beyond sick of Benghazi Benghazi Benghazi I could scream.
Hillary didn't arrange for our people to be murdered.
They were murdered in a restless country by militants with an anti-American agenda.
There have been hundreds of thousands of people killed in the Middle East since Bush and Cheney decided to "liberate" Iraq.
There were hundreds of thousands of people killed in the Lebanese Civil War too, along with several hundred US Marines.
I do not recall the Democratic Party holding inquisitions about that.
Maybe we should have.
Maybe we should get out our Torquemada robes and hold a star court every time we see a Republican sneeze.
It would so totally serve you guys right.
But, we really love our country and want to move it it forward and help our fellow Americans.
And we don't want to waste time and taxpayer money fomenting hatred, lies and total bull in the halls of Congress, which should be performing important work on behalf of the American people.
Hillary didn't arrange for our people to be murdered.
They were murdered in a restless country by militants with an anti-American agenda.
There have been hundreds of thousands of people killed in the Middle East since Bush and Cheney decided to "liberate" Iraq.
There were hundreds of thousands of people killed in the Lebanese Civil War too, along with several hundred US Marines.
I do not recall the Democratic Party holding inquisitions about that.
Maybe we should have.
Maybe we should get out our Torquemada robes and hold a star court every time we see a Republican sneeze.
It would so totally serve you guys right.
But, we really love our country and want to move it it forward and help our fellow Americans.
And we don't want to waste time and taxpayer money fomenting hatred, lies and total bull in the halls of Congress, which should be performing important work on behalf of the American people.
1
How have we Americans come to this? A serious, intelligent, and accomplished candidate is forced to perform tricks for our entertainment to get a bump in the polls. She is not warm and fuzzy, get over it already.
And BTW I don't hear anyone complaining about Fiorina's lack of humor, warmth and spontaneity while she's lying through her teeth.
And BTW I don't hear anyone complaining about Fiorina's lack of humor, warmth and spontaneity while she's lying through her teeth.
77
Accomplished? What accomplishments? Looks like her biggest was marrying Bill
If nominated she will suppress Democratic turnout in record numbers.
28
Yes, that is an important point.
For all that Republicans work to suppress voter turnout, Democrats have a role too in poor turnout.
People who would never vote for a Republican just don't vote at all if the Democratic candidate does not appeal. We can argue that is a poor choice, but that is what potential voters do.
Turnout is a referendum too, on the choices offered, both of them.
For all that Republicans work to suppress voter turnout, Democrats have a role too in poor turnout.
People who would never vote for a Republican just don't vote at all if the Democratic candidate does not appeal. We can argue that is a poor choice, but that is what potential voters do.
Turnout is a referendum too, on the choices offered, both of them.
13
If that's the case shame on the Democrats.
If Democrats are so dumb (like Republicans) that we have to get the warm and fuzzies our the tingling leg thingy from our Presidential candidates then we have no business voting in the first place.
This is disgusting. We are not children. We shouldn't require sex appeal or fuzziness or cuteness in a President.
For pete's sake this is a serious, difficult time and we need a smart, tough, well-educated leader with sane policies and plenty of experience.
Hillary fits.
If you guys have an issue with her ideas, confront her ideas.
But for pete's sake this is becoming really despicable.
I also think it's sexist and ageist and just plain dumb.
If Democrats are so dumb (like Republicans) that we have to get the warm and fuzzies our the tingling leg thingy from our Presidential candidates then we have no business voting in the first place.
This is disgusting. We are not children. We shouldn't require sex appeal or fuzziness or cuteness in a President.
For pete's sake this is a serious, difficult time and we need a smart, tough, well-educated leader with sane policies and plenty of experience.
Hillary fits.
If you guys have an issue with her ideas, confront her ideas.
But for pete's sake this is becoming really despicable.
I also think it's sexist and ageist and just plain dumb.
2
I doubt that.
Democrats will turn out in substantial numbers because the alternatives are so blatantly and obviously unacceptable.
Democrats will turn out in substantial numbers because the alternatives are so blatantly and obviously unacceptable.
2
Really Frank, isn't this all driven by the media - including the NY Times? I don't need a president that is funny, plays a musical instrument or can dance on Ellen. I'm looking for an intelligent, experienced, honest adult. Let's stop forcing candidates to be entertainers!
50
This woman has no campaign. She has not figured out how to put one together in spite of a staff of experts and money. Hillary could have had me and women like me with the merest whiff of a plausible campaign. I never watch TV, all my viewing is streaming. I read news papers, books and magazines online for information and news. Facebook has replaced TV advertising for people like me. On Facebook, I get uninspiring invitations to "join Hillary" in this, that or the other cause. The approach is so condescending and trite that I have never been inspired to click to open the post. It's like watching JFK and Nixon debate in the 60's. Nixon hadn't figured out how to use TV while JFK was a natural. Nixon was to TV what Hillary is to social media today. If you can't figure out this bit of the "modern" world, why would I trust you to run a country?
She handled the email issue in the worst possible way so she is now doomed to endure a slow motion water torture one drip at a time. Hillary is smart and has a lot to offer but she applying for the wrong job. I agree with many of her positions but I now wish Hillary would go away....almost as much as I wish Trump would go away. She needs to put her painful campaign out it's misery and get out of the way so someone with a prayer of a chance can run. I will not vote for her. Please, please,please go away, Hillary.
She handled the email issue in the worst possible way so she is now doomed to endure a slow motion water torture one drip at a time. Hillary is smart and has a lot to offer but she applying for the wrong job. I agree with many of her positions but I now wish Hillary would go away....almost as much as I wish Trump would go away. She needs to put her painful campaign out it's misery and get out of the way so someone with a prayer of a chance can run. I will not vote for her. Please, please,please go away, Hillary.
29
For crying out loud, will you and folks like you just look at her resume? Why would you make your vote contingent on something as artificial, shallow, and emphemeral as a modern political campaign when she has demonstrated competence at the highest levels of government as both a legislator and executive!?!? I just DO NOT get it. You don't like her or agree with everything's she's done. FINE. But this kind of stuff about Hillary just drives me nuts, especially when comparing her to any of the Republicans.
1
No campaign? And yet she's locked up more super-delegates than any other candidate -- Sanders has yet to lock up one --, is polling strongly with every group that isn't young, white and super-progressive (Sanders' only strength), and could have the nomination locked up by March 1st with the races in the seven Southern States and various caucuses even IF she loses NH and IA.
How is that a struggling campaign? Oh right. Bruni, Dowd, Sanders supporters and the Times have a narrative to push. As you were ...
How is that a struggling campaign? Oh right. Bruni, Dowd, Sanders supporters and the Times have a narrative to push. As you were ...
She's very smart. She works hard. She has lots of experience. She gives a lot of thought and due consideration to policy instead of jumping to take a position. She tries to craft solutions instead of spouting off ideas. She's serious, has trouble with spontaneity, lacks charisma. She's an aged and unsexy woman who makes women's rights a priority.
How can she possibly win?
How can she possibly win?
43
Your comment just made me very sad because I think you might just be right.
But as the glass half full kinda gal I am, if she gets the nomination I'm hoping the lunacy on the other side will hand her the presidency on a silver platter.
But as the glass half full kinda gal I am, if she gets the nomination I'm hoping the lunacy on the other side will hand her the presidency on a silver platter.
1
I still don't understand people who still put their hope on a Hillary Clinton presidency. We need a real progressive like Bernie Sanders in the White House.
20
Hillary is out of step.
First she felt she was anointed and cordoned people off.
Now she is trying too hard to be hip and cool.
Don't we have enough children running for the office of president without adding one more?
How undignified to be discussing some man's appendage and on video much less.
How humiliating.
First she felt she was anointed and cordoned people off.
Now she is trying too hard to be hip and cool.
Don't we have enough children running for the office of president without adding one more?
How undignified to be discussing some man's appendage and on video much less.
How humiliating.
15
She is failing to convince the public that she is seeking the presidency to work on the public's behalf rather than for reasons of her own ego and ambitions. Hence the dissonance about who and what she really is and what she pueports to be.
18
Hillary Clinton is her all worst enemy. She knew what the rules were and set the server up before she took office which tells me she intended to do what she did all along.
Liberals can complain all day long but she is not genuine. When she went to Chipoltle early in her campaign her staffers hand picked the people that would be in there. Was there a vetting process?
When she was on Jimmy Kimmel and that cackling laugh and her big eyed "I am a Real Person!" was awkward to say the least. That was not her. That was her people telling her what she needed to do to come across as warm and funny.
But then during the one interview she teared up like she did in 2008 after she did badly in New Hampshire
If she had just admitted her mistake it would have gone away over time. But this defiant tone and her refusal to accept responsible until just recently and even then it wasn't a true apology makes people angry. They think the Clintons are above the law and the rules don't apply to them
Obama met with those 3 nuts from MTV so he would perceived as cool and Hillary meeting with Lena Dunham is no different. They won't ask hard questions and because of the type of questions and the way they are presented it allows them to present a more confident and relaxed persona
Finally, when you see Hillary asking voters to look past this and just move on you know she's worried. And she should be. This has gotten past partisan politics and her political life is on the line.
Liberals can complain all day long but she is not genuine. When she went to Chipoltle early in her campaign her staffers hand picked the people that would be in there. Was there a vetting process?
When she was on Jimmy Kimmel and that cackling laugh and her big eyed "I am a Real Person!" was awkward to say the least. That was not her. That was her people telling her what she needed to do to come across as warm and funny.
But then during the one interview she teared up like she did in 2008 after she did badly in New Hampshire
If she had just admitted her mistake it would have gone away over time. But this defiant tone and her refusal to accept responsible until just recently and even then it wasn't a true apology makes people angry. They think the Clintons are above the law and the rules don't apply to them
Obama met with those 3 nuts from MTV so he would perceived as cool and Hillary meeting with Lena Dunham is no different. They won't ask hard questions and because of the type of questions and the way they are presented it allows them to present a more confident and relaxed persona
Finally, when you see Hillary asking voters to look past this and just move on you know she's worried. And she should be. This has gotten past partisan politics and her political life is on the line.
7
If God won't punish her, you will.
4
And then there are Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders, who also "do their homework with uncommon diligence and earnestness" but are NOT "duds on the stump". I have every confidence that they would not be an embarrassment to the citizens of the United States as Clinton seems to be doing.
24
This probably will not be published by the NYT, but as a former Warren supporter when she first ran for Senator, I remembered that I was shocked that in liberal Mass. she almost lost the election to Scott Brown. I do wish liberals would be fair! Yes, Warren and Sanders are raising there voices, calling for a "political revolution" and speak forcefully about income inequality. They both should be praised and neither has been requested to do a comic act, nor do I find either of them constantly barraged with demands to be more personable. Hillary on the other hand has worked on "Democratic" issues, supported "Democratic" principles during times when neither Warren nor Sanders were Democrats.
1
Well, to say the very obvious, it's kind of sad. Obama got it right, unhappily enough, when he said Hilary was "likeable enough." She is, and, in that she is running for the Democratic nomination to be president of the United States, one might say, well, yes, no: who cares. But then we get this stuff. Bernie Sanders should be the party's nominee although that probably won't happen. I would rejoice to be able to vote for Joe Biden as the Democratic nominee for president, but I think that won't happen either--and for his sake, I hope he won't make the run. Mrs. Clinton--it's kind of hard to write Ms. for her!--would be infinitely better than anyone the dysfunctional and marginally insane Republicans will put up. But I don't think there are many Democrats, Independents, otherwise more-or-less sane people who can vote for her with any real enthusiasm.
90
The enthusiasm comes from how awful everyone else running for President is, except Kaisch and Sanders, neither of whom can generate the kind of heat to win. Hillary may not be a perfect candidate but she is miles ahead of every Republican who has run in 2008, 2012 and currently, and.....................she is much more capable of actually being an effective President than Barak Obama has proven himself. Believe me, I am 150% glad that he has been our President rather than McCain or Romney.
"Hold your nose and vote for Hillary" is, unfortunately, the bumper sticker of the day.
I find her very likable. Frankly, I don't care if she is likable. I care that she is smart, has lots of experience in government and understands the broad range of issues we face. Did you see her on Face the Nation?
This Democrat will vote for her with enthusiasm. And I know a lot of others that will as well.
This Democrat will vote for her with enthusiasm. And I know a lot of others that will as well.
2
The President was wrong, Hillary is not "likeable enough".
She is a tragically flawed personality, right on some of the issues, not home on a number of important issues. Bernie's voting record for the past 20 years put hers to shame. There are better democratic candidates, both women and men, unfortunately her sharp elbows have caused most to stand down.
If given the opportunity, she will lose the presidency to a republican.
She is a tragically flawed personality, right on some of the issues, not home on a number of important issues. Bernie's voting record for the past 20 years put hers to shame. There are better democratic candidates, both women and men, unfortunately her sharp elbows have caused most to stand down.
If given the opportunity, she will lose the presidency to a republican.
8
Actually, when they were in the Senate together for 8 years, Hillary and Bernie voted the same 93% of the time - that is a fact.
2
Bruni
If I may please make one more point. We are fairly close in age so you are well aware of the media circus around Watergate. That was a break in at the Watergate building. Files were stolen from Ellsberg's office and there was a concerted cover up. I remember the hearings on TV that seemed to go on forever. Woodward and Bernstein made a career off that. Why wasn't that a partisan witch hunt? What was Iran Contra? When liberals smell blood in the water they will spare no expense but when it comes to Hillary? It's a witch hunt.
Hillary Clinton said that there were emails about Chelsea's wedding, yoga poses, emails to Bill. Fine. Let's see them. I have yet to hear if she has produce them. Hillary's actions are significantly more serious because IT experts said she didn't have the firewalls the State Department has and her server could have been easily compromised.
She lied about the server, she lied about the number of devices she had, she lied about her relationship with Blumenthal and she lied about sending and receiving confidential email. National security information could have been compromised and I for one want to know the truth about what happened You can't push for investigations for Watergate and Iran Contra and to this day talk about them and them give Hillary a pass. IF she broke the laws she needs to answer for it. All these appearances are nothing but a small distraction from the reality of a set of circumstances of her own doing
Thank you
If I may please make one more point. We are fairly close in age so you are well aware of the media circus around Watergate. That was a break in at the Watergate building. Files were stolen from Ellsberg's office and there was a concerted cover up. I remember the hearings on TV that seemed to go on forever. Woodward and Bernstein made a career off that. Why wasn't that a partisan witch hunt? What was Iran Contra? When liberals smell blood in the water they will spare no expense but when it comes to Hillary? It's a witch hunt.
Hillary Clinton said that there were emails about Chelsea's wedding, yoga poses, emails to Bill. Fine. Let's see them. I have yet to hear if she has produce them. Hillary's actions are significantly more serious because IT experts said she didn't have the firewalls the State Department has and her server could have been easily compromised.
She lied about the server, she lied about the number of devices she had, she lied about her relationship with Blumenthal and she lied about sending and receiving confidential email. National security information could have been compromised and I for one want to know the truth about what happened You can't push for investigations for Watergate and Iran Contra and to this day talk about them and them give Hillary a pass. IF she broke the laws she needs to answer for it. All these appearances are nothing but a small distraction from the reality of a set of circumstances of her own doing
Thank you
3
Val in Brooklyn, NY to HealedByGod in San Diego.
This comment starts with you adding a point. Was there an earlier comment that I missed? Cause what I see in this one, well . . .
I'm a liberal who doesn't look for blood. I'm certainly not defensive of Hillary. I know she doesn't walk on water. Believe me, at least one family member can attest to that.
But, you ask why Watergate and Iran Contra aren't considered partisan witch hunts? Seriously? And, you put them in the same comment with emails about Chelsea's wedding and yoga poses, for comparison? Sometimes emails about strapless wedding gowns and downward facing dog poses really are just that.
People have commented that others who've served in government have used private emails for gov. business and no one questioned it. Apparently, including Colin Powell. Isn't he Republican?
Submitted 9-29-15 at 8:02 pm EST
This comment starts with you adding a point. Was there an earlier comment that I missed? Cause what I see in this one, well . . .
I'm a liberal who doesn't look for blood. I'm certainly not defensive of Hillary. I know she doesn't walk on water. Believe me, at least one family member can attest to that.
But, you ask why Watergate and Iran Contra aren't considered partisan witch hunts? Seriously? And, you put them in the same comment with emails about Chelsea's wedding and yoga poses, for comparison? Sometimes emails about strapless wedding gowns and downward facing dog poses really are just that.
People have commented that others who've served in government have used private emails for gov. business and no one questioned it. Apparently, including Colin Powell. Isn't he Republican?
Submitted 9-29-15 at 8:02 pm EST
It's baffling that fifty percent of the country buys into the circus act of the GOP. Are we that stupid and dumbed down as a nation? Has the corn syrup lobby run away with the intelligence of the nation? The sense of yes we can do and the fact we are mightiest nation that ever existed is gone. Now it's about beating our chest like apes and say the most outrageous nonsensical statements that not long ago only a sitcom writer could come up with. Hillary is being forced to dumb down her campaign in order to reach the segment of the population that has to be protected from itself. Ms. Clinton is the only person whom I would feel comfortable guiding the nation in the right direction. Under president Obama we have erased much of the damaged created by the last inept GOPer we elected to the presidency. Life is short, it takes about four years to clean up the mess a Republican administration leaves behind. Do the math, twelve years backward and four forward. I don't want to live my life taking one step forward and two backward. We need someone serious and competent to take the country to the next level and I don't see anyone on the Republican's side to do it. If I want to have a beer of have a portrait that looks as if painted by a child I'll call George Bush. As he himself said "Fool me once, shame on - shame on you". Ms. Clinton need not to worry about the people who follows the GOP, they are not aware that on election day they have to show up at the polls and pull the lever.
10
The problem is the campaign is a dress rehearsal for presidency...so if this is what she's showing us no matter how intelligent or thoughtful policy positions are it is clear that out in the world on the fly she will not be able to react and lead this country. Its not her personality whatever her ambition or credentials.
It's like Obama - his campaign was brilliant hitting on all cylinders and bringing new voters into the fold. But he's still largely empty stump speeches. He really never inspired his fellow politicians to work with him to bring about solutions on the left much less the right. The moments of his presidency where he's been strongest is when he's allowed to deliver a great speech.
So who do we need in 2015? I think it is time for a true moderate. Someone people and other politicians like and trust and who are deeply committed to country not just themselves. I was about to say I wasn't sure who that was just yet...but as I type I think it is time for Joe Biden to throw his hat in the ring. Authentic, versed in legislating and governing and seemingly committed to the idea that this is a great country that could work better for the people who live here.
It's like Obama - his campaign was brilliant hitting on all cylinders and bringing new voters into the fold. But he's still largely empty stump speeches. He really never inspired his fellow politicians to work with him to bring about solutions on the left much less the right. The moments of his presidency where he's been strongest is when he's allowed to deliver a great speech.
So who do we need in 2015? I think it is time for a true moderate. Someone people and other politicians like and trust and who are deeply committed to country not just themselves. I was about to say I wasn't sure who that was just yet...but as I type I think it is time for Joe Biden to throw his hat in the ring. Authentic, versed in legislating and governing and seemingly committed to the idea that this is a great country that could work better for the people who live here.
53
What are you talking about regarding Pres. Obama's presidency. We know why he could not work with the republicans - they made a vow not to work with him. Sure, the dems did not agree with everything he wanted. But how do you think he passed healthcare, saved our economy, prevented us from starting more wars, getting us out of Iraq, making a historic agreement with Iran.
He'll go down in history as one of our most effective presidents.
He'll go down in history as one of our most effective presidents.
Personally, I do not find Hillary an attractive personality in the least. Nevertheless, I don't matter. But if Hillary can't manage to elicit support from the average American, how in the name of God is she going to deal with foreign leaders, especially those who get her back up - she does not handle this well.
Agreed, OB was great speech maker during his campaign, but as we've discovered, leadership requires a vision, and guts, and willingness to negotiate. However, what we're seeing is more generalized blah, blah, blah such as this week at the UN.
A lot of ink has been expended on Ms. Clinton's superficial "shortcomings" and her efforts to "reconnect" with voters. What gets lost in the discussion is that Ms. Clinton appears (time and again) to stand for only one thing -- the accumulation of power for selfish reasons. Yes, she is smart, well-educated, hardworking and experienced, but so what? There are countless people that fall into this category, and I don't begrudge them a thing, but I don't want them as my presidential candidate.
3
HRC is electable, but she should stop with the silliness. She is very serious and earnest and that is what our times require. She needs to look at each of us and speak about what a GOP president could mean to us. Abortion-- illegal. Contraception: difficult for the poor to acquire. SCOTUS- stuffed with a few more white, male, catholic federalists. Social Security and Medicare-- privatized or means tested. Gay Marriage-- out. An increase in the minimum wage-- not going to happen. Rebuilding our infrastructure-- what's so wrong with our unregulated gas lines installed in the 1930s? Climate change: hooey. She needs to prepare us all for the destruction that will follow a GOP sweep. Our future depends upon it.
9
You are so right! Just the thought of a Repub president naming the next SCOTUS Justice(s) ought to be enough to get people to pull the lever for whoever is at the top of the Dem ticket.
The worst Dem candidate would still be better than the best Repub.
The worst Dem candidate would still be better than the best Repub.
1
And we are pleasantly surprised and proud that our First Lady is striving to look like Beyonce at a State Dinner. Kanye is aiming for 2020, but if it's Beyonce we want maybe it should be JayZ.
Our news is delivered late night via entertainers, so it's only logical that we get the best names to star in the next production.
Hillary Clinton is desperate, phoney and pathetic. Surely there is someone in the Democratic Party - under 65 - who might be qualified to lead the country. If not, we have more than a Clinton problem.
Our news is delivered late night via entertainers, so it's only logical that we get the best names to star in the next production.
Hillary Clinton is desperate, phoney and pathetic. Surely there is someone in the Democratic Party - under 65 - who might be qualified to lead the country. If not, we have more than a Clinton problem.
11
Surely there is someone in the Democratic Party - under 65 - who might be qualified to lead the country.
=============
It does not appear that any such person exists
=============
It does not appear that any such person exists
Let's not miss out on the nuances of the PowerPoint analogy. Many communication experts (most notably Edward Tufte, formerly of MIT) consider PowerPoint a sublime way to pauperize information --- to eviscerate rather than summarize, frequently either leaving out crucial ingredients or else dismissing them as footnotes when they ought to be higher-level integrators --- very much as occurs in poor teaching that omits overviews necessary as frameworks from which to hang specific factoids, because of the often naive assumption that listeners should be able to construct their own frameworks. Hillary seems adept at such bloodless presentation of her stands on issues because those stands are rarely solidly footed in a subsuming philosophy, but rather seem to jump out from places unknown to fit situations that arise either from competitor philosophies or from the need to exhibit potent-sounding rhetoric.
3
I get it. We've advanced half a step. Instead of straightforward chatter about a woman's appearance or likeability, we'll chatter about other people's opinions of her appearance and likeability. . .Whatever.
And the press, including Bruni, get to phone in entire columns in which they needn't lift a finger to analyze a policy or check facts. They just drivel on about a talk show. Or about the inanity of a talk show. Same difference.
Thanks for nothing.
And the press, including Bruni, get to phone in entire columns in which they needn't lift a finger to analyze a policy or check facts. They just drivel on about a talk show. Or about the inanity of a talk show. Same difference.
Thanks for nothing.
66
Excellent point Paula. There is something trivial and drivel about such articles. I could not put a finger on it...you nailed it. It is a form of sexism, and presstitute classism.
1
Thank you.
This column, and the assault on Cecile Richards of Planned Parenthood, are two sides of the same coin.
This column, and the assault on Cecile Richards of Planned Parenthood, are two sides of the same coin.
2
Paula.... precisely.....'And the press, including Bruni, get to phone in entire columns in which they needn't lift a finger to analyze a policy or check facts. They just drivel on about a talk show. Or about the inanity of a talk show. Same difference.'
And , while they pretend to be critics, they deal in the same garbage of those they criticize!
Thanks for nothing from the NYT op ed page.
And , while they pretend to be critics, they deal in the same garbage of those they criticize!
Thanks for nothing from the NYT op ed page.
2
She needs to read some Brene Brown and relax.
Joe Biden, I know you're sad and you have had to deal with unspeakable tragedy in your life and that maybe you need some time to grieve and heal, but please please please please run for president. We need you now. You are perhaps the only Democrat that can win. Yes, Bernie Sanders has great politics but he has no chance to carry moderates or middle of the roaders.
12
Bernie would not have let this happen to him.
25
Frank, I have to say you're too easily overwhelmed. She's not the overwhelming anything, if only because no one knows how many shoes are yet to fall or when. I think there are plenty of shoes to come, enough to resemble a slow-motion hurricane in Imelda's closet. But even if that turns out to be wrong, is that a risk any sane party wants to take? Who needs it? You better hope Uncle Joe can find the stomach for this.
4
Hillary Clinton's "campaign so far [has been] an unimpressive dress rehearsal" since 2007. Now it has become simply pathetic.
In a campaign where the opposition is literally falling all over itself to prove how unelectably crazy it can be, Hillary Clinton is channeling the GOP's lowest common denominator. Now we have an oxymoronic "scripted spontaneity" with sophomoric girl-giggling about some guy's apparent "wardrobe malfunction."
For the love of Larry, Donald Trump is Hillary Clinton's opponent, not her role model. We are talking about the PRESIDENCY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA here.
Please, Hillary, if you're up to it, at least respect the dignity of the office.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
In a campaign where the opposition is literally falling all over itself to prove how unelectably crazy it can be, Hillary Clinton is channeling the GOP's lowest common denominator. Now we have an oxymoronic "scripted spontaneity" with sophomoric girl-giggling about some guy's apparent "wardrobe malfunction."
For the love of Larry, Donald Trump is Hillary Clinton's opponent, not her role model. We are talking about the PRESIDENCY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA here.
Please, Hillary, if you're up to it, at least respect the dignity of the office.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
11
Can't we do better than a candidate we have to "make peace with." Don't we deserve better?
15
The Democratic Party doesn't seem to think you deserve it
1
So very true. If Ms. Clinton could simply embrace her "Tracy Flick" she could actually be charming. Reality is frightening....
17
How is this any different than Obama and Galifianakis? God forbid Hillary have some fun. Let's also stop pretending that Obama, and many candidates before him both at the state and national level, didn't use focus groups in their campaigns.
16
President Obama may have had focus groups, but please -
Barack Obama has more natural charm, presence, grace, and intelligence in his little finger, than Mrs. Clinton could achieve with a dozen focus groups
Barack Obama has more natural charm, presence, grace, and intelligence in his little finger, than Mrs. Clinton could achieve with a dozen focus groups
Fun is one thing.
Hanging out with crudeness will just attract more of the same.
She will look back and regret this appearance, if not already.
Unless perhaps she finds a way to "wipe it clean with a cloth or something"
Ever since since Senator Sanders started his campaign she has been mimicking him on almost all the issues.
It took her while to decide on a critical issue of the environment such as Keystone.
If you have not thought about Keystone and where you stand by now something is very wrong.
That is VERY troublesome and a bad omen for the clean up of our environment if she were to become president.
It feels as though she had to consult with her money masters on Wall St to see what kind deal she could strike with them in order to service their demands for more of everything and simply compromise do what's necessary to appease the People.
She panders to her audience, assumes a fake southern draw in SC. Please.
How can she talk about campaign reform and use super pacs?
How can you speak of equality but favor the trade agreements that hollow out american industry?
How can you work to end Wall St. corruption and yet be part of it?
How can you care about blacks and yet suppress them at the same time?
She has no idea who she really is. And it shows.
Hanging out with crudeness will just attract more of the same.
She will look back and regret this appearance, if not already.
Unless perhaps she finds a way to "wipe it clean with a cloth or something"
Ever since since Senator Sanders started his campaign she has been mimicking him on almost all the issues.
It took her while to decide on a critical issue of the environment such as Keystone.
If you have not thought about Keystone and where you stand by now something is very wrong.
That is VERY troublesome and a bad omen for the clean up of our environment if she were to become president.
It feels as though she had to consult with her money masters on Wall St to see what kind deal she could strike with them in order to service their demands for more of everything and simply compromise do what's necessary to appease the People.
She panders to her audience, assumes a fake southern draw in SC. Please.
How can she talk about campaign reform and use super pacs?
How can you speak of equality but favor the trade agreements that hollow out american industry?
How can you work to end Wall St. corruption and yet be part of it?
How can you care about blacks and yet suppress them at the same time?
She has no idea who she really is. And it shows.
Mr. Bruni, much as I enjoy your essays and look forward diligently to them, I must admit that I am becoming very distressed with the New York Times' continued emphasis on Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton. Today there's a Magazine piece on the Fraud Formerly Known As Donald Trump. Now you weigh in with yet another piece in the continuing metamorphosis of Madame Secretary. The Times spends enormous amounts of print on other candidates who do not look or sound or wear well: Jeb!, the clueless "the smart Bush," Ben (Dr. Strangelove) Carson, Mario ("My family fled Castro's regime and barely escaped") Rubio, Ted "Born in Canada" Cruz, Mike "Elmer Gantry" Huckabee. Why in heaven's name can't the Times give some serious space to Bernie Sanders? I once thought it laughable that the "Eastern liberal media establishment" (borrowing this bromide from the Nixon years) controlled our politics through the press. Now, I'm not so certain. I think your bosses are in for a huge and discomfiting ride when Bernie Sanders meets Mrs. Clinton in the first debate. She may duck and dodge and fail to engage, but Sen. Sanders isn't going to let her off that easily. I can predict, humbly, that he'll peel away the layers of contrivance from the former First Lady, and then the Times will need a serious "re-set" going into 2016. Please, Mr. Bruni; I'm tired of Hillary Rodham Clinton. I want to know more about Sen. Sanders. Is this too much to ask, given the disaster looming on the Right?
55
I'd like to know why Hillary Clinton's legs are hiding behind her pantsuits.
What do they have against being spontaneous and seen by the public?
What do they have against being spontaneous and seen by the public?
5
Hillary is well known to have heavy legs (proportional to her size) and "cankles" -- thick, graceless ankles. She looks terrible in skirts, so she wears unstylish outdated pantsuits instead.
In some ways, why should this matter? it's easier for men. But still, I don't know if I'd vote for a POTUS who wore brown polyester suits with orange ties, or pants that were flood length.
In some ways, why should this matter? it's easier for men. But still, I don't know if I'd vote for a POTUS who wore brown polyester suits with orange ties, or pants that were flood length.
1
Biden just has to enter the race as it looks increasingly like Bernie will beat Hillary for the nomination
6
Hillary is a product, a brand, a corporatist who will forever be marketed to us, just as Barack Obama was, and still is. The difference between the two is that he had very little history, which allowed David Axelrod, Rahm Emanuel, and the rest of his handlers to present him as a new product with all of the well-researched slogans delivered by a master orator with a nice enough smile.
Hillary and Barack both went down to the corporate crossroads decades ago and sold their souls to the devil so they could aspire to play the presidential guitar. You will not see "genuine" from Hillary because she is not. How many more articles do we have to read about her campaign's attempt at "genuine" before we get the message?
If you want to know the "real" Hillary, check out her Super-Pac donors, and the banksters, moguls, and billionaires she hangs out with, and you will know who she will really look out for if she ever manipulates her way into the White House, regardless of what she says during the campaign. She is the consummate career political animal firmly entrenched in the Beltway/ Wall Street/ Hollywood universe.
If you want to see genuine, his name is Bernie Sanders. His Super-Pac? He doesn't have one.
Who does he owe favors to? No one.
Who are his backers? The poor, the working class, and middle class Americans with families.
Had enough of the political "theater" yet, America?
Hillary and Barack both went down to the corporate crossroads decades ago and sold their souls to the devil so they could aspire to play the presidential guitar. You will not see "genuine" from Hillary because she is not. How many more articles do we have to read about her campaign's attempt at "genuine" before we get the message?
If you want to know the "real" Hillary, check out her Super-Pac donors, and the banksters, moguls, and billionaires she hangs out with, and you will know who she will really look out for if she ever manipulates her way into the White House, regardless of what she says during the campaign. She is the consummate career political animal firmly entrenched in the Beltway/ Wall Street/ Hollywood universe.
If you want to see genuine, his name is Bernie Sanders. His Super-Pac? He doesn't have one.
Who does he owe favors to? No one.
Who are his backers? The poor, the working class, and middle class Americans with families.
Had enough of the political "theater" yet, America?
52
A realist would see that no matter how wonderful Mr Sanders is, and I believe he is, he would not stand a chance in a national election. If the Dem want to keep the White House, Hillary is the only one who can do it.
3
Exactly, a career politician who had nothing, nada, and is now worth over $125 million. Explain that.
1
I agree that Clinton and Obama are well too the political right of both FDR and LBJ as expected but they are also both too the partisan political right of Ike and Nixon.
But the only class missing from the Sanders charade is the most loyal long suffering black African American Democratic base. Vermont is about as colorlessly white as it gets in America. And the last Negro Colored Person with whom Bernie Sanders worked and agreed with was Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. who has been dead for nearly 50 years.
Why wasn't Monica Lewinsky invited to the Hillary Clinton pajama party?
But the only class missing from the Sanders charade is the most loyal long suffering black African American Democratic base. Vermont is about as colorlessly white as it gets in America. And the last Negro Colored Person with whom Bernie Sanders worked and agreed with was Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. who has been dead for nearly 50 years.
Why wasn't Monica Lewinsky invited to the Hillary Clinton pajama party?
It's baffling that Clinton would "hang out" and associate herself with such vulgar and crude people such as Lena and Amy. I guess anything for a vote. I think she needs to get rid of her sophomoric handlers...they will be the demise of Hillary.
24
And when does someone address the childcare crisis in this country. I just ran into our retired police chief --- he too was in tow with a grandchild. "There is no one home to take care of the kids!"
11
I wish my granddaughter lived close enough so she could be in tow with me a lot of the time!
Ask her about Putin. Ask her hard questions that Americans need to ask. She is smart if she cares about her grand daughter's future she will answer from her heart, not as a politician but as a grand mother.
12
Wow -- how far have we fallen when even an off-color joke has to be scripted to make a candidate dispel poll numbers that say she is too stiff. (Bad choice of words.)
16
One of the reasons Ms. Clinton has to try to be someone she isn't is because of the sexism in this country. If she were in the corporate world she would be able to "just" be the strong, smart, capable person that she is. But as a woman running for such a high office she has to be feminine and girly to soften her image. That says more about us as a people than it does about her.
For what it's worth, I'm a middle-aged white man who has seen plenty of the double standard in the corporate world. You'd have to be blind to miss it.
And for those looking for substance - did you watch Ms. Clinton on "Face The Nation" or "Meet The Press" recently? Her breadth of knowledge and confidence about foreign and domestic affairs puts the generalities of "The Donald" to shame. She demonstrated how relevant her prior work experiences are when discussing issues from Libya to her support of women's rights. This woman has substance.
I haven't always been a fan of hers but at this point in time her strengths are clearly visible and relevant to me.
For what it's worth, I'm a middle-aged white man who has seen plenty of the double standard in the corporate world. You'd have to be blind to miss it.
And for those looking for substance - did you watch Ms. Clinton on "Face The Nation" or "Meet The Press" recently? Her breadth of knowledge and confidence about foreign and domestic affairs puts the generalities of "The Donald" to shame. She demonstrated how relevant her prior work experiences are when discussing issues from Libya to her support of women's rights. This woman has substance.
I haven't always been a fan of hers but at this point in time her strengths are clearly visible and relevant to me.
770
By "at this point in time" do you mean "now"?
We judge people by how they express themselves.
We judge people by how they express themselves.
nycityny Amen. Great comment.
1
Has any politician in history in our country been subjected to the scorn she has for her hair, her clothes, her jewelry, her calves, her makeup?
At this early stage, I don't think most people are paying attention, unless you're a Fox viewer, then all you will hear about is Benghazi and emails. But I certainly hope she's paying attention to Bernie Sanders and the enthusiasm he's generated among progressives. She needs policy proposals to address ever worsening income and wealth disparity, which should include higher taxes on the wealthy.
5
Note she finally stated a position about that environmental disaster, XL Pipeline, where she claims she is opposed, but dismissed the whole matter as not important. Just note with the oil glut tar sands oil is not so profitable, so that could explain her grudging position, but to dismiss it as not important is too much. She will always be Goldwater's Girl, remember Goldwater voted against the Civil Rights Act.
Sanders or Stein this time.
Sanders or Stein this time.
I wish that people weren't afraid to push "her highness" off to the side of the road and run for the presidency on the democratic ticket much like the Republicans are doing. It ought to be a free for all. Instead it's a tip toeing around Hillary Clinton who has done absolutely nothing since her hat was thrown into the ring. It's boring.
10
That bit with Lena Dunham was humiliating for Mrs. Clinton and someone should be fired for allowing it. What's next, Colbert or some other late night person asking, "Waist-ies or bikinis?" Did Lena share her own advice for success - show up on TV naked??
I'm not a supporter but that was exactly what we don't need as we face so many serious issues. One has to question Mrs. Clinton's judgement after that interchange.
I'm not a supporter but that was exactly what we don't need as we face so many serious issues. One has to question Mrs. Clinton's judgement after that interchange.
10
I could not consider voting for HRC in 2008 and won't do it now. She's the same person no matter how she is packaged. I have written VP Biden twice asking him to run. If he does not, Bernie Sanders has my vote. I just cannot support HRC; the wrong woman as the first woman president would be so much worse than no woman at all. Barack Obama has proven that a black president works! despite a ferociously hostile Republican party trying to thwart his every move. It's because he is such an honorable and fair person. Hillary Clinton facing similar hostility would be a horror show and it would take decades for another woman to mount a successful presidential campaign. A real supporter of women will not vote for Hillary Clinton.
13
So what will you do if HRC gets the nomination and faces any one of the Republicans? If you wont vote for her, will you vote for Rubio, or Cruz, or Huckabee, or how about Trump, or any of the other jackals who might end up as the Republican nominee? Or will you simply not vote? Will you do nothing so one of those clowns can win and we'll be saddled with incompetence and right-wing nonsense for 4-8 years, during which time at least one Supreme Court justice will be handpicked by whoever the Republican president is? I too am not crazy about Hillary, but in this life, you do the best with what you have. I'll vote for Hillary if she's the Democratic nominee so we won't be saddled with a 4th rate version of GWB, or worse. To vote for a 3rd party candidate (if there is one) or not vote, is handing the country and our future over to a Tea Party disaster!
1
I am a Bernie Sanders supporter but Hillary Clinton's personality or persona or whatever the MSM wants to call it, just doesn't bother me because I am more interested in policy than anything else. If Bernie doesn't get the nod, I will work my heart out to get her elected because she is devoted to advancing policies I support like equal pay, education, women's health care, expanding the ACA, addressing income and opportunity inequality and the gross double standard people of color and immigrants are subjected to due to the GOP's embrace, to this day, of the Southern Strategy which still, in 2015, elevates white, middle class Americans to a level far beyond the reaches of most non-whites. and the poor. Every Republican candidate is entrenched in this system and Hillary Clinton is not.
What's shocked me most about this campaign season is how quickly so many Democrats and Independents, particularly women, have abandoned her as a reliable back-up candidate if one is needed. It isn't Joe Biden. As soon as he gets in the race, his poll numbers will decrease by at least 10 points. Americans are easy on would-be candidates, not on actual candidates. The MSM wants him in the race. CNN just changed its rules for the next debate so he can participate before he's even declared.
Then, there's the Supreme Court. As many as four justices may be replaced by the next president. A Democrat needs to have that power. Does any rational person really want a Republican to make that choice?
What's shocked me most about this campaign season is how quickly so many Democrats and Independents, particularly women, have abandoned her as a reliable back-up candidate if one is needed. It isn't Joe Biden. As soon as he gets in the race, his poll numbers will decrease by at least 10 points. Americans are easy on would-be candidates, not on actual candidates. The MSM wants him in the race. CNN just changed its rules for the next debate so he can participate before he's even declared.
Then, there's the Supreme Court. As many as four justices may be replaced by the next president. A Democrat needs to have that power. Does any rational person really want a Republican to make that choice?
170
For me, its Sanders or Stein. Hillary will always be Goldwater's Girl for me. Since those days she took millions from labor and stabbed them every time. Like Bill her positions are "triangulation" all the way, so Wall Street and Big Business, Big Ag, Big Pharma get what they want.
Her record, unlike Sanders, does not support hope that it will be different this time.
Her record, unlike Sanders, does not support hope that it will be different this time.
1
Mary, you say HRC is dedicated to the ACA. I have news for you. Hillary is dedicated to raw power and getting elected. Today, she said she was against the ACA tax on so-called "cadillac health plans" that kick in in 2017. Why? This tax mainly falls on executives and union members because of the very generous benefits. As the major unions have withheld support from Hillary over this, she caved. Anything to buy votes! The tax is one part of how we pay for the ACA. Perhaps you will realize Hillary will sell out anyone for a vote. She voted for the Iraq War so she could look tough. Tell that to all the dead and maimed. As an aside, Bernie doesn't like the tax either. "Healthcare for all" as long as Democrats with great plans don't have to share in the cost. What hypocrisy! Warren for President.
Mary Scott....As many as 4 S. Court justices may be replaced by the next pres, but we get silly columns like this on the op ed page of America's most prestigious and authoritative newspaper? One accused by the rw of being librul? Something's out of whack.
Joe Biden? What does he stand for Who knows?
Joe Biden? What does he stand for Who knows?
Pretty much right on the mark, Mr. Bruni. But you should have taken your observations one step farther. Why is Hillary Clinton allowed the opportunity to continually "re-introduce" herself? No one gets the do-overs she's been given. The only explanation is because she is a woman, and more specifically the only viable female candidate for President during the last decade. I for one look forward to the day when there are female choices other than Mrs. Clinton; that will be progress.
102
JIll Stein, Green Party is running. They chained her to a chair for showing up at the debate during the last presidential run, and Hillary had nothing to say about that.
Nixon got chances to re-introduce himself and made it to the White House -- and, amazingly, to China. I hope she doesn't come to a bad end like Nixon. I don't think we are factoring in the effect of the roles she has long publicly played: first lady of Arkansas, of the US, Secretary of State to a historic President. Those are second banana roles. As is V-P. Being yourself in an unplugged way is not the way to occupy those roles well -- effectively, with consistency and dignity and as a representative of someone in higher office than you. She did those well, and she'd be a dignified President. We aren't supposed to be electing an entertainer in chief.
1
Why are you and a host of other people as well as the media claiming she is the only "viable" women candidate?
If that is what you and everyone else truly believes, than what are you saying about all other women in currently in politics?
If that is what you and everyone else truly believes, than what are you saying about all other women in currently in politics?
For Hillary to constantly having to confront the issue of having used her private email rather than a government email is an issue that won't go away; reason being that the Federal Government (Obama) doesn't like her - they are instigating it. She first competed with Obama during elections by spreading rumors that he was a Muslim, then agreed to serve him as Secretary of State but then quit prematurely, and then wrote a book disagreeing with him on key issues and selling it last year (signature and all) on the same island (Martha's Vineyard) where he was vacationing that same time - really stupid. She went too far in discrediting the President and now pays the price - she is finished.
7
Bruni doesn't know who he is or what he wants. I hope he learns soon. Does he want a class valedictorian (Middle School) or a jolly Santa as POTUS? He needs to find something substantive to say and give over the gossip.
17
You know who is really being too frivolous? You are, Mr. Bruni. You marvel at a politician trying to be charismatic for a political campaign. What a shocker. Only it's Hillary, so it's terrible. This is the only thing the media is capable of reporting on, apparently, when it comes to the Clinton campaign. You have your narrative, and you're sticking too it, damn the policies and their real life consequences. I mean, Hillary made a joke with a television personality! The shame, the shame.
59
It's funny. Hillary Clinton is a serious person with serious ambitions (obviously). I find it utterly fascinating that no matter what she does, she get's criticized. Trumps is like a circus coming to town, and gets praised for using this strategy to get attention. Is Mrs. Clinton too scripted or too stiff or trying too hard to appear relaxed? Who cares? The email "controversy" that never ends is all she is really allowed to discuss most of the time. How about some analysis of her policy proposals? She is who she is, with the serious personality she has. I don't fault Mr. Bruni for not takling her policy proposals but I do fault the mainstream reporters for ignoring them. Trump is getting serious coverage of his, ahem, tax proposals. Hillary Clinton's thoughts on making college more affordable get barely a mention. Although I think she should stick with her strengths, the fact that she's hobnobbing with stars? So what?
217
Whether she is serious is irrelevant to just what it is she is serious about. Although the cautious campaign is running on the "trust us" platform, we can surmise from her record and who pays the bills that we will continue to have unrestrained Wall St, perpetual war on behalf of the MIC and Irsrael, and continual shadiness across the board.
I am beginning to wonder why it is that Sanders, who has said what he will do and has acted consistently therewith, cannot buy anywhere near the jounalistic attention of a tired, corrupt Clinton or a wildy entertaining but irresponsible Trump?
I am beginning to wonder why it is that Sanders, who has said what he will do and has acted consistently therewith, cannot buy anywhere near the jounalistic attention of a tired, corrupt Clinton or a wildy entertaining but irresponsible Trump?
2
"She remains the overwhelming favorite for the Democratic nomination."
This is the same exact sentence I keep reading on the NYT and elsewhere, and continue hearing on CNN. Are editors telling journalists that they must continue to brainwash the public with this nonsense? How about the fact that Bernie Sanders has been gaining on Hillary Clinton in every recent poll? How about the longer she's in the public eye, the less we gravitate towards her, because we see that she's inauthentic, that as a recipient of super pac money she is beholden to billionaire donors, that she voted for the Iraq war, that she was against gay marriage until she was for it? It's very tiresome to keep reading this pro-Clinton meme as it passes from one media outlet to the next. Once again, I ask the NYT: Where is Bernie Sanders in all of this, and why does Mr. Bruni not mention him even once in this column?
This is the same exact sentence I keep reading on the NYT and elsewhere, and continue hearing on CNN. Are editors telling journalists that they must continue to brainwash the public with this nonsense? How about the fact that Bernie Sanders has been gaining on Hillary Clinton in every recent poll? How about the longer she's in the public eye, the less we gravitate towards her, because we see that she's inauthentic, that as a recipient of super pac money she is beholden to billionaire donors, that she voted for the Iraq war, that she was against gay marriage until she was for it? It's very tiresome to keep reading this pro-Clinton meme as it passes from one media outlet to the next. Once again, I ask the NYT: Where is Bernie Sanders in all of this, and why does Mr. Bruni not mention him even once in this column?
240
How about the fact that Bernie cannot win the general election because we are stuck with a long out of date electoral college system that makes just a handful of states "count" on election night. We in CA are NOT one of those states, in spite of our importance to the country in every way. So the question is: which dem can beat the GOP in those handful of battleground states? That is the only question for a serious democrat. I think you know that its RC.
3
Well, for starters she is a Democrat and he is an Independent running for the Democratic party nomination.
1
Sanders can support his positions, even those I do not like, with 50 years of work on them. While the Goldwater Girl was supporting B. Goldwater, who voted against the Civil Rights Acts. Sanders was actively supporting civil rights.
She has stabbed Labor while taking their money, and I will never vote for her as it is the same as voting for Jeb.
us army 1969-1971/california jd thanks to gi bill/public education
She has stabbed Labor while taking their money, and I will never vote for her as it is the same as voting for Jeb.
us army 1969-1971/california jd thanks to gi bill/public education
3
No matter how she's packaged, I can't forgive her for not standing up to the invasion of Iraq while she was in the Senate. Everyone I knew understood that the Bush-Cheney-Rumsfeld pretexts for war were deceitful. Surely she knew, too. She could have stood up and been an ally to those who were protesting and who voted no -- like Bernie Sanders.
But she chose to burnish her "male" warhawk credentials because she was more certain this would lead her to the White House. How many millions are dead, physically or psychologically maimed, displaced from their homes as a result of this? There's a straight line from our Iraq folly to the rise of ISIS and the current refugee disaster. I can't find a way to forgive her for this;
But she chose to burnish her "male" warhawk credentials because she was more certain this would lead her to the White House. How many millions are dead, physically or psychologically maimed, displaced from their homes as a result of this? There's a straight line from our Iraq folly to the rise of ISIS and the current refugee disaster. I can't find a way to forgive her for this;
121
Absolutely right on! You nailed it.
What is wrong with all those supposed liberal supporters who cannot see how much blood she has dripping wretchedly from her hands? Don't they realize how she might act with the powerful US military under her control? The woman is an abomination. I cringe to think what might happen if she is elected.
What is wrong with all those supposed liberal supporters who cannot see how much blood she has dripping wretchedly from her hands? Don't they realize how she might act with the powerful US military under her control? The woman is an abomination. I cringe to think what might happen if she is elected.
Well, not everyone was a certain as you that we were lied to in the run up to the Iraq war. I remember watching Colin Powell show pictures and other proof about WMD's. I didn't believe that they existed until that show. Now, as we know, they even lied to Colin Powell.
Hillary was not a war hawk. She voted to support the President. Who knew then how hollow that Presidency was and how eager Bushes minders were to get into another war.
Hillary was not a war hawk. She voted to support the President. Who knew then how hollow that Presidency was and how eager Bushes minders were to get into another war.
1
I knew how hollow Bush's presidency was. Mrs. Clinton should have, too. He was made into a "financial wizard" by mis-investing public money to build a sports stadium, all based on advice given him by people who wished to propel him forwards. He got a cushy pilot's job during the Vietnam War and didn't do so well at it. He was completely unqualified. Mrs. Clinton, on the other hand, is qualified -- and thus in a position to recognize who is a public-relations fiction and who is not. But qualified does not make you into the leader our country needs. For a long time, I stayed away from Hillary-bashing. On reflection, she gave up any claim to principle by her inability to act on what she had to have discerned: that the then-Commander-in-Chief was hollow and that the rationales he and his captains offered for our entry into Iraq were lies. She is disqualified on that basis.
"“Insane,” said one Democratic operative when I sought his reaction."
Ugh, ugh, and ugh. if this is what she thinks will make her real, she should think again. I'd far rather she accept that's she a dowdy, uncharismatic wonk and keep it at that. At least she knows some facts and could run circles around any GOP candidate in a debate.
At this point, this campaign can't end soon enough.
Ugh, ugh, and ugh. if this is what she thinks will make her real, she should think again. I'd far rather she accept that's she a dowdy, uncharismatic wonk and keep it at that. At least she knows some facts and could run circles around any GOP candidate in a debate.
At this point, this campaign can't end soon enough.
32
"I blame us in part." Really? Then why don't you do something about it? You have the privilege of writing for the New York Times. You have a voice. I assume as an op-ed columnist, "the talent" as one might say, you choose the topics you write about.
How about this for an idea? There are a lot of us out here very concerned about real life problems. We could care less about Lena Dunham, Amy Schumer, and Ellen Degeneres. So, you take a weekly topic: global warming, rising tuition, crowded prisons, income inequality.... the list goes on and on. Then you write about each candidates stand on the issue of the week.
I know there are no penises here, no racy sex, no emails. Just the facts, Frank. That's all we need. That's all we want. That's the media's job. Or it once was.
How about this for an idea? There are a lot of us out here very concerned about real life problems. We could care less about Lena Dunham, Amy Schumer, and Ellen Degeneres. So, you take a weekly topic: global warming, rising tuition, crowded prisons, income inequality.... the list goes on and on. Then you write about each candidates stand on the issue of the week.
I know there are no penises here, no racy sex, no emails. Just the facts, Frank. That's all we need. That's all we want. That's the media's job. Or it once was.
772
Val in Brooklyn, NY to Sheila Blanchette in Exeter, NH.
I could kiss you and a number of other people who've commented today. BTW, trblmkr, you're definitely not alone. I also love smart, prepared, and boring. I find what purports to journalism here--especially in this piece--embarrassing, degrading, and beyond sexist.
As you've said, we'd like would like to hear and read the all of candidates--including those in Independent parties, such as Jill Stein, etc., discuss substantive, urgent issues, such as those you've mentioned. That includes the rash of Muslim-bashing, lately. Considering what's at stake, anything less is a gross disservice to readers.
Mr. Bruni & Co., do your job(s) and stop putting your feet in it.
I could kiss you and a number of other people who've commented today. BTW, trblmkr, you're definitely not alone. I also love smart, prepared, and boring. I find what purports to journalism here--especially in this piece--embarrassing, degrading, and beyond sexist.
As you've said, we'd like would like to hear and read the all of candidates--including those in Independent parties, such as Jill Stein, etc., discuss substantive, urgent issues, such as those you've mentioned. That includes the rash of Muslim-bashing, lately. Considering what's at stake, anything less is a gross disservice to readers.
Mr. Bruni & Co., do your job(s) and stop putting your feet in it.
3
Not any more, it's not the media's job. Now it's all "clickbait." Penises, Lena Dunham, Schumer [either of them], Degeres, email: it's all the same. No ideas. Just what attracts viewers. Unfortunately, it is no longer Bruni, who I used to respect.
2
"Just the facts" is for reporters, not columnists. Mr. Bruni writes entertaining columns which is what readers expect from a columnist.
I ran into one of her aides at the Burlington, Iowa Target yesterday, and I asked her again, like I have been for weeks, "where is the fight?" And she referenced what Hillary said in this town or that town. But, it is always flat. I am beginning to think it is a coronation and there is no need to fight. But, as one has mentioned below me, "She just joined a bowling league in New Hampshire and a quilting bee in Iowa." Has Hillary noticed one of the independent quilt shops in Burlington is closing, and the other is never open? Does she understand minimum wage jobs can't buy sewing/quilting machines and supplies? C'mon girl!
16
Why exactly is she such a great candidate?
But she is! If only she could articulate it!
Yeah right. Why exactly should we believe there is a wonderful inner Hillary buried beneath the arrogance and entitlement and slime?
Why should we wait for her to express herself? Hasn't she had enough time and focus groups to figure it out? If there was something there, wouldn't we have seen it already? Frankly, she sounds like a left-wing Mitt Romney. Which is not a compliment.
Have you noticed that Bernie Sanders just talks about the issues? Have you noticed that Bernie's length of service in government is longer than Hillary's? Have you noticed he is a better candidate? I think it is time for the press to end its fascination with her and start reporting on positions.
One other thing. To my knowledge, Bernie does not hide government business on a private email server. In the financial sector, you can fired and de-licensed for shenanigans like that. Just sayin'.
But she is! If only she could articulate it!
Yeah right. Why exactly should we believe there is a wonderful inner Hillary buried beneath the arrogance and entitlement and slime?
Why should we wait for her to express herself? Hasn't she had enough time and focus groups to figure it out? If there was something there, wouldn't we have seen it already? Frankly, she sounds like a left-wing Mitt Romney. Which is not a compliment.
Have you noticed that Bernie Sanders just talks about the issues? Have you noticed that Bernie's length of service in government is longer than Hillary's? Have you noticed he is a better candidate? I think it is time for the press to end its fascination with her and start reporting on positions.
One other thing. To my knowledge, Bernie does not hide government business on a private email server. In the financial sector, you can fired and de-licensed for shenanigans like that. Just sayin'.
107
So you too have bought in to Republican propaganda. When Hillary said she never even thought about there being a problem with the server, I believe her. Add to that, her reason for not coming out against the pipeline was obvious long before she announced it. She is among the best of public servants. Long may she continue to serve us!
Hillary Clinton is perpetually defensive because at every turn in her political process she is confronted either by ghosts of her past - or
5
When you look at the republican line-up, it's actually refreshing that the current Democratic leader's greatest drawback (now that we're all- except maybe Trey Gowdy- apparently done with "Emailgate, The Little Scandal That Couldn't"), is that she's too "earnest" and "controlling."
Don't want a president with THAT.
Sheesh.
Don't want a president with THAT.
Sheesh.
31
Maybe the "real" Hillary is just a lawyer, and that's all we're going to get.
3
I'm ready for Joe.
10
"But first Clinton has to make peace with it herself."
The Goldwater Girl made peace with herself years ago when she hooked up with Mr. "I didn't inhale" and how do you define sex through triangulation, and then fell in love with War and Wall Street.
Her and Jeb should run together as the "money couple."
Sanders or Stein this time.
us army 1969-1971/california jd thanks to gi bill/public education
The Goldwater Girl made peace with herself years ago when she hooked up with Mr. "I didn't inhale" and how do you define sex through triangulation, and then fell in love with War and Wall Street.
Her and Jeb should run together as the "money couple."
Sanders or Stein this time.
us army 1969-1971/california jd thanks to gi bill/public education
5
Progressive voters have been making peace with neoliberals since Bill Clinton was elected and what do we get? A trickle down economy that works for maybe the top 20%. NAFTA, the repeal of Glass-Steagall and the Iraq war. What will be next? 'Saving' Social Security with a 'grand bargain' that means tests and cuts benefits? The TPP that sacrifices national sovereignty to corporate interests? KXL or KXL 2.0? And then there is Wall St, the great neoliberal redistributor of wealth, from the many to the few. Excuse me if I find it hard to believe that HRC is going to stand up to the bankers.
16
"I think that Clinton is actually in less trouble than we sometimes speculate."
Frank, I think your analysis of the situation is off. Clinton is all but done for. Few in this country like her. She has always been hated by conservatives. And she lost progressives when she supported Bush's war in Iraq without end. The only thing she really has going for her is the fact that she is female and could potentially be the first female president. But that is not enough for her or for Fiorina. The person who would easily become the first female president refuses to run. That means 2016 will not be the year of the first female president elected.
Anybody who is genuinely interested in intelligence, candor, and experience, coupled with the right progressive policy prescriptions need look no further than Bernie Sanders. Why bother looking elsewhere? Why continue trying to make Hillary into something she isn't: a genuine and wise human being who would make a good president.
I want to see a Democratic nominee who I can vote for. If it is Hillary versus one of the GOP nitwits, I will have to sit this presidential election out.
Frank, I think your analysis of the situation is off. Clinton is all but done for. Few in this country like her. She has always been hated by conservatives. And she lost progressives when she supported Bush's war in Iraq without end. The only thing she really has going for her is the fact that she is female and could potentially be the first female president. But that is not enough for her or for Fiorina. The person who would easily become the first female president refuses to run. That means 2016 will not be the year of the first female president elected.
Anybody who is genuinely interested in intelligence, candor, and experience, coupled with the right progressive policy prescriptions need look no further than Bernie Sanders. Why bother looking elsewhere? Why continue trying to make Hillary into something she isn't: a genuine and wise human being who would make a good president.
I want to see a Democratic nominee who I can vote for. If it is Hillary versus one of the GOP nitwits, I will have to sit this presidential election out.
42
The more people like you who tell me to vote for Bernie Sanders because "Hillary is done," the more likely it is I'm just going to stay home and not vote at all. After a sixteen year career in the Senate, Sanders has a shockingly thin list of legislative achievement, an alarming support for lax gun control, and a surprising absence of coalition building, even with the Democrats (which he isn't, by the way).
So, in other words, I find no reason whatsoever to "feel the Bern." I'll just not vote if he's the nominee.
So, in other words, I find no reason whatsoever to "feel the Bern." I'll just not vote if he's the nominee.
When will Hillary play like it's hers to win instead of playing not to lose? Trump has shown us the margin for error is sky high provided you speak with a little conviction and/or authenticity. I would argue the reason W. beat Gore was because more people thought W. really, truly believed what he was saying.
People want to know the candidate believes what they're saying, not because they care about the specific policy position but because they care about - forgive the phrase - the person has a soul.
Hillary may not need one to beat this field of Republicans, but with this kind of competition, how could it hurt to just relax and be herself?
People want to know the candidate believes what they're saying, not because they care about the specific policy position but because they care about - forgive the phrase - the person has a soul.
Hillary may not need one to beat this field of Republicans, but with this kind of competition, how could it hurt to just relax and be herself?
1
Frank, you can be as unfair to Hil as you want in your editorials. But Amy has been putting her opinion of Hil in her news stories, and has been chastised for it. It hasn't stopped her.
Don't come crying to me when a GOP candidate wins and the Supreme Court becomes even worse than it is already.
I don't care who the Dem nominee is, I'm going to vote for him/her. You should too. Your hatred of Hill--your outrage--will do you no good if we have a Republican president.
Don't come crying to me when a GOP candidate wins and the Supreme Court becomes even worse than it is already.
I don't care who the Dem nominee is, I'm going to vote for him/her. You should too. Your hatred of Hill--your outrage--will do you no good if we have a Republican president.
39
Unfortunately politics, like water, can't rise above its source. We reap what we sow.
1
Mr. Bruni,
You have written column after column about Donald Trump being an empty suit with a big show, now you go after Hillary Rodham Clinton for not putting on a more compelling show, with no real thought to her governance platform? This kind of candidate treatment keeps elections as spectacles.
You have written column after column about Donald Trump being an empty suit with a big show, now you go after Hillary Rodham Clinton for not putting on a more compelling show, with no real thought to her governance platform? This kind of candidate treatment keeps elections as spectacles.
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Mr. Bruni would help us all if he provided policy comparisons instead of personality impressions.
Start the comparison in the 1960s and move through the decades to today. Then you see whose work was aimed to benefit the average citizen, and who was in the trenches on Civil Rights.
In 1964 Clinton was busy campaigning for Barry Goldwater, a Senator who voted against the Civil Rights Act.
us army 1969-1970/california jd thanks to gi bill/public education
Start the comparison in the 1960s and move through the decades to today. Then you see whose work was aimed to benefit the average citizen, and who was in the trenches on Civil Rights.
In 1964 Clinton was busy campaigning for Barry Goldwater, a Senator who voted against the Civil Rights Act.
us army 1969-1970/california jd thanks to gi bill/public education
"For years we’ve demanded that she show us something more raw, that she weep or bleed or chirp or quip, that a policy wonk isn’t enough, that a résumé is only the start."
By 'we,' I can only assume you mean the media. The American people do not want this kind of idiocy.
By 'we,' I can only assume you mean the media. The American people do not want this kind of idiocy.
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By we, Bruni means himself. That's what he wants. Chirps and quips match his interests. But he tries to blame the public! As usual. So obvious.
It tells me she can't tolerate creative people if her staff can't cook up something better than this. I hate to say so but I feel for Bill.
6
Hill and Bill cut a deal, back in 1998, that she would not divorce him so long as he devoted himself to her career after he left the White House -- so it was "arranged" to get her a Senate seat, and then after she blew the 2008 primary, it was "arranged" to get the Secretary of State post.
But the public isn't buying it. Sorry, Hillary.
But the public isn't buying it. Sorry, Hillary.
God forbid our president be serious. Everything does not have to be fit for a reality show. The media's focus on this kind of nonsense is the very reason she has to do this kind of thing. Not to mention that the Times' coverage of her certainly destroys any notion of neutral reporting.
44
"I think that Clinton is actually in less trouble than we sometimes speculate. She remains the overwhelming favorite for the Democratic nomination."
I think you are wrong. Either Hillary or several of her close handmaidens/males are going to be criminally charged and lose their security clearances over her inability to properly handle highly classified materials. The aged dowager has already admitted (hesitantly) that she is responsible for the email server mess, so she should pay the price. Is there another Susan McDougal out there?
Or, the Obama Administration, the DOJ, the FBI and/or the Defense Security Service will have to publicly rollover and says "she's too big to fail", at which time every person in the country (including most ex-military types) who have or ever had a security clearance are going to rise up and shout in venomous, and very public justified anger.
I think you are wrong. Either Hillary or several of her close handmaidens/males are going to be criminally charged and lose their security clearances over her inability to properly handle highly classified materials. The aged dowager has already admitted (hesitantly) that she is responsible for the email server mess, so she should pay the price. Is there another Susan McDougal out there?
Or, the Obama Administration, the DOJ, the FBI and/or the Defense Security Service will have to publicly rollover and says "she's too big to fail", at which time every person in the country (including most ex-military types) who have or ever had a security clearance are going to rise up and shout in venomous, and very public justified anger.
12
This is a new low for you, Frank. Do you really not get it? Having to have spent my 67 years watching the "Boys" chum it up on golf dates or toting rifles to go blast defenseless birds, listening to the press corp shout inane questions about how does it feel, sir?, trotting out Mitt Romney at fairs, listening to Dick Cheney lie about shooting his 'best friend' in the face or W telling the press to come see the big heap of brush he just cleared from the back 40 of 'Prairie Chapel', the 'public', meaning me, has gotten pretty good on separating out the Goofy Irrelevant from Substance.
It was your choice to write this silly article about pajamas and penises. Too bad you wasted the space. But I'm getting used to wasted space when it comes to the Times and Clinton. Whether it is Benghazi or emails, I am so beyond caring. I no longer listen to you. No matter what it is, she won't get a fair shake and I won't get any information on what she REALLY is doing.... unless I go elsewhere, and I do.
Now, here's a real news flash for you: It seems that Kevin McCarthy may not be a shoo-in. The Hard Right Crazies are working to get Trey Gowdy to replace Boehner. You know Gowdy: the one who's run the Benghazi Committee for years. He hates her with a passion. Swears he'll get her on something. I believe he has a penis, too. You can write about him. You can even write about him in glowing terms like you and the Times do on all those Klowns.
Don't become as irrelevant as Maureen Dowd, Frank.
It was your choice to write this silly article about pajamas and penises. Too bad you wasted the space. But I'm getting used to wasted space when it comes to the Times and Clinton. Whether it is Benghazi or emails, I am so beyond caring. I no longer listen to you. No matter what it is, she won't get a fair shake and I won't get any information on what she REALLY is doing.... unless I go elsewhere, and I do.
Now, here's a real news flash for you: It seems that Kevin McCarthy may not be a shoo-in. The Hard Right Crazies are working to get Trey Gowdy to replace Boehner. You know Gowdy: the one who's run the Benghazi Committee for years. He hates her with a passion. Swears he'll get her on something. I believe he has a penis, too. You can write about him. You can even write about him in glowing terms like you and the Times do on all those Klowns.
Don't become as irrelevant as Maureen Dowd, Frank.
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Trey Gowdy is being put forward for Majority Leader, the position McCarthy holds now. No one is suggesting Gowdy should become the Speaker. He would probably lose that election. Like Boehner, McCarthy's positions place him around the median of the distribution of Republican sentiment in the House. Gowdy is considerably to the right of the median Republican House Member.
Rosa, why do I feel all the Hillary backers are out to smack Frank Bruni because he exposes the endless game playing, parsing, re-imaging and relentless polling to tell us what she should say. It isn't about dissing a woman here. If Hillary wants to be treated fairly, then she must be open to criticism without playing the "woman"card. It also isn't about the Republicans who will do whatever it takes to defeat themselves. Any candidate can issue all the position papers they want, tell us all the world leaders they have met and claim they can work miracles if elected. Most of us know they are either delusional or lying. The question is one of effective leadership for this country. GW Bush was not competent enough to do the job and President Obama has basically abandoned his position and waiting for his term to expire. The insider game in Washington is to continue the same game. Whether some Democrats like it or not, Hillary is a one percenter who has demonstrated a sheer thirst for money and power at any cost. She will say anything and do anything to get elected. How many women's lives did she destroy when they attacked Bill for his infidelity? I cannot, after voting Democratic for the last forty years, vote for her. I would vote for Elizabeth Warren, but she is not running. Bernie is a maybe. I'm sorry you and others don't like Hillary's weaknesses exposed. It's good for the country if she is not elected President.
Thank you, Rosa. Looks like we are the same age and each other and as Hillary. Age may not be a good quality for convincingly yucking it up with (I think) the insufferable Lena Dunham, but it does give a certain sense of history and the consequences of actions. I am so disappointed in the Times. And I am sure I will cancel my subscription rather than endure at least four years of Dowd vitriol at a President Hilary Clinton. I could probably call in her columns now.
2
I believe HRC suffers from having perhaps the worst team of campaign consultants ever assembled. That says two things, neither very positive:
1) she calls all the shots and overrides the advice she's getting; or
2) she hires based on loyalty, not expertise and track record of success
HRC can salvage the campaign if she hires Axelrod or Carville. Otherwise, her campaign is likely to continue to sputter leaving many Democrats completely uneasy and unenthusiastic.
1) she calls all the shots and overrides the advice she's getting; or
2) she hires based on loyalty, not expertise and track record of success
HRC can salvage the campaign if she hires Axelrod or Carville. Otherwise, her campaign is likely to continue to sputter leaving many Democrats completely uneasy and unenthusiastic.
7
You missed a third possibility. People just don't like her.
No, Frank, first she has to stop lying... a tough task since it's who she is and what she does.
11
Lena Dunham is the perfect celebrity to reinforce Clinton's message - with people who already agree with her. Unfortunately, Dunham isnt going to push the message outside the echo chamber. The pathetic part is that HRC doesn't even know the game has passed her by. She's a mere afterthought in most political conversations, which are now dominated by speculation that Joe Biden will jump in the race or that BS leads in the polls in IA and NH. She was playing not to lose and letting Sanders hog the spotlight, instead of taking him out early and often. The nomination was hers to lose and it looks like she's doing her best to lose it. Will someoone please let her in on the joke?
2
Hillary had her day -- it was in 2008. She had the money, the name, the fame, the endorsements, etc.
She managed to LOSE to an unknown Junior Senator from Illinois with the middle name "Hussein".
I'm sorry, but she's toast. She just can't close the deal. A smart woman would have offered that Junior Senator the VP slot if he dropped out -- bribed him even. The nation would have been better off if Mr. Obama had had 8 years of learning politics in Washington before ascending to the highest office.
What is sad is she and her followers cannot accept her having lost. She's still acting like it is 2008 and she's only 59 and and her pantsuits are not 20 years out of style.
She managed to LOSE to an unknown Junior Senator from Illinois with the middle name "Hussein".
I'm sorry, but she's toast. She just can't close the deal. A smart woman would have offered that Junior Senator the VP slot if he dropped out -- bribed him even. The nation would have been better off if Mr. Obama had had 8 years of learning politics in Washington before ascending to the highest office.
What is sad is she and her followers cannot accept her having lost. She's still acting like it is 2008 and she's only 59 and and her pantsuits are not 20 years out of style.
She can't close the deal, that was evident during her unremarkable run as SOS. We should have know this when she flubbed the "reset" photo op with Putin. Time to move on to younger candidates, not wearing pantsuits.
While with Bernie we don't get any of this posturing, just consistent positions on universal health care, addressing income inequality, rebuilding the infrastructure, addressing racial inequality, the environment, etc. Not that we would know this from reading any NYT Op Ed piece, in which, if he is referenced at all, he is the subject of the horse race only, and deemed likely to lose. Why the gag order?
"The goal of The New York Times is to cover the news as impartially as possible — “without fear or favor,” in the words of Adolph Ochs, our patriarch — and to treat readers, news sources, advertisers and others fairly and openly, and to be seen to be doing so. The reputation of The Times rests upon such perceptions, and so do the professional reputations of its staff members. "
Your words. Certainly not mine about the NYT.
"The goal of The New York Times is to cover the news as impartially as possible — “without fear or favor,” in the words of Adolph Ochs, our patriarch — and to treat readers, news sources, advertisers and others fairly and openly, and to be seen to be doing so. The reputation of The Times rests upon such perceptions, and so do the professional reputations of its staff members. "
Your words. Certainly not mine about the NYT.
33
Bruni and Dowd have so completely pigeonholed Hillary with the same tired old accusations and mis-characterizations that they can no longer see anything but their own constructions. They're like lazy teachers who've decided after a few papers they have a C student, then stop reading the papers and just keep handing out C's no matter what the student does.
Even John McCain was more perceptive.
From the LA times:
"They shared many things, including a candid tongue. Both also have at times been at odds with their own parties. They found they could work together across the aisle as committee members and enjoyed each other's company on fact-finding trips around the world. In Estonia, according to one famous tale, Clinton challenged McCain to a vodka shot-drinking contest, which he readily accepted.
Later, McCain remarked to friends "she was one of the guys," a high compliment among guys.
Even John McCain was more perceptive.
From the LA times:
"They shared many things, including a candid tongue. Both also have at times been at odds with their own parties. They found they could work together across the aisle as committee members and enjoyed each other's company on fact-finding trips around the world. In Estonia, according to one famous tale, Clinton challenged McCain to a vodka shot-drinking contest, which he readily accepted.
Later, McCain remarked to friends "she was one of the guys," a high compliment among guys.
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'Earlier this month, The Times’s Amy Chozick .... reported that there would be “new efforts to bring spontaneity to a candidacy that sometimes seems wooden and overly cautious."
Bringing a political cadaver to life is hard work, Mr. Bruni; maybe we should just wait for the cardio-pulmonary-resuscitation to kick in on Hillary.
If only there was an on-off switch to turn robot Hillary off and turn human Hillary on, but alas there she remains, the stiff, tortured Goldwater Girl from Chicago who can't shake her painfully conservative Methodist disposition and presentation style.
They say she's much better one-on-one and when she's on the defensive, but the Presidency demands a 1-on-300-million charm, wit and confidence and protagonist that creates its own compelling narrative.
She's certainly very smart and capable for the job of the Presidency, but if she can't loosen up and inspire the proletariat and can't show her humanity without extra effort, Hillary will lose to someone with more fire in the belly who has a passion to lead.
While the vast right-wing conspiracy chips away at her character by making mountains out the Benghazi-and-email molehills, she should be out doing stand-up in every state reminding Americans that the Greed Over People conspiracy of trickle-down fraud, voter suppression, 0.1% moneyed speech, corporate people and Christian Shariah law has done its biblical best to abort the nation's future for 35 years.
Hillary needs to set her own pantsuit on fire.
Bringing a political cadaver to life is hard work, Mr. Bruni; maybe we should just wait for the cardio-pulmonary-resuscitation to kick in on Hillary.
If only there was an on-off switch to turn robot Hillary off and turn human Hillary on, but alas there she remains, the stiff, tortured Goldwater Girl from Chicago who can't shake her painfully conservative Methodist disposition and presentation style.
They say she's much better one-on-one and when she's on the defensive, but the Presidency demands a 1-on-300-million charm, wit and confidence and protagonist that creates its own compelling narrative.
She's certainly very smart and capable for the job of the Presidency, but if she can't loosen up and inspire the proletariat and can't show her humanity without extra effort, Hillary will lose to someone with more fire in the belly who has a passion to lead.
While the vast right-wing conspiracy chips away at her character by making mountains out the Benghazi-and-email molehills, she should be out doing stand-up in every state reminding Americans that the Greed Over People conspiracy of trickle-down fraud, voter suppression, 0.1% moneyed speech, corporate people and Christian Shariah law has done its biblical best to abort the nation's future for 35 years.
Hillary needs to set her own pantsuit on fire.
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She did construct her own e-mail molehill, and really made a mountain out of it herself.
Capable to be President? Because she did such a fine job managing her health care proposal way back when? Or her primary campaign in '08? Or her management of the White House travel office for heaven's sake, or her scrupulous care of top secret documents as SoS?
The emails are not mole hills, my man. The law is very clear about Top Secret documents.
The emails are not mole hills, my man. The law is very clear about Top Secret documents.
What Hillary is demonstrating is that she has the self-control, intelligence, knowledge, energy, experience and courage to rise to every manner of challenge. So what do you want, someone "genuine" like Ronald Reagan?
198
I want someone "genuine" like Bernie Sanders. Scratch that, I want Bernie Sanders.
1
Oh, leave Hillary alone, Frank! She is a patriot and has the best interests of her country at heart and all anyone can talk about is her e-mails and lack of spontaneity. I just want to say stuff it. I think I will. Stuff it!
218
Baloney - if she were interested in serving her country she would have stayed in the Senate and maybe have become as respected as Ted Kennedy was before she was finished.
What does "patriot" mean? Warmonger?
Let's face facts...Hillary is not Presidential material. She wouldn't have been Senate material, her first and only elected office, if Bill and Hill hadn't moved to New York.
She has money. She has ambition. She has insider support. She doesn't have a clue about what to say or do, that's why her campaign spent $923,000 on polling during the last 3 months FEC reporting period.
On the other hand, Bernie Sanders spent NADA, Zilch, nothing for polling and tens of thousands turn out to hear what he has to say.
Of course, Bernie has something money can't buy...He's real.
She has money. She has ambition. She has insider support. She doesn't have a clue about what to say or do, that's why her campaign spent $923,000 on polling during the last 3 months FEC reporting period.
On the other hand, Bernie Sanders spent NADA, Zilch, nothing for polling and tens of thousands turn out to hear what he has to say.
Of course, Bernie has something money can't buy...He's real.
56
If only he had media support like some of the other candidates in pantsuits.
Hillary has been a talented attorney, an elected official, and Secretary of State--good at all she does. Remember Bobby Kennedy moving to NY to run for the Senate? She's hardly the first politician to do so. The fact that as President, she'd have Bill as an advisor gives me hope that 2 for 1 will benefit the country.
1
Let's face facts--if Bernie had the money to pay for polling he would. There's nothing wrong with it.
Groucho Marx suggested you have it made it you can fake honesty and fair dealing. That's clearly beyond Hillary, so she's reduced to oxymoronic planned spontaneity. Heaven help us.
11
The Clinton Spontaneity Committee meeting is held Thursdays at 4 PM.
I'm not sure how important emailgate is to the welfare of our country. Rather, I would like to see more polling on what issues most concern Americans. My votes would be for economic inequality, and the need to speedily and thoroughly repair our infrastructure. If my goals are widely shared, then what are the candidates, Republican and Democrat, saying about them? How would they accomplish this? I don't care how spontaneous or contrived Hillary is; I care about what she would do and how she would accomplish this vs. how others would do the same. So far, her proposals and those of Sanders both seem to have a depth I find missing from most - but not all - Republicans. (I'm looking at you, John Kasich). Could we please focus more on the important stuff, and less on the pablum? Thanks.
67
Our PM Stephen Harper has centimetred* his way into first place in the polls by using the hot-button issue of the incredible threat to our nation that a niqabbed woman taking her citizenship vows presents.
So emailgate may well have greater importance than you think.
(* centimetred is Canadian for inched)
So emailgate may well have greater importance than you think.
(* centimetred is Canadian for inched)
A top official has no clue how to handle classified information (at best) and is lying and facing indictment (at worst) and you have no idea how important that is to our country?
"She is fiercely intelligent but, yes, wildly defensive." And she has good reason to be, doesn't she? She has been hounded, insulted, investigated, accused of everything from malfeasance to murder (literally) for over two decades. Yet not ONE of those accusations has actually panned out with real, solid evidence.
Yet people like you, Mr. Bruni, continue to provide the drumbeat, the snide reference, the outright mean-spiritedness that helps to MAKE her feel defensive. You (and your even more mean-spirited colleague, Ms. Dowd) have never been, and will never be, satisfied with ANYTHING Ms. Clinton says or does because you approach it from your deeply ingrained dislike of her. Frankly (no pun intended), you and Ms. Dowd should be barred from reporting on Ms. Clinton since there is simply no way whatsoever that you could possibly do so with even a modicum of neutrality.
What we have here is a true case of the tail wagging the dog.
Yet people like you, Mr. Bruni, continue to provide the drumbeat, the snide reference, the outright mean-spiritedness that helps to MAKE her feel defensive. You (and your even more mean-spirited colleague, Ms. Dowd) have never been, and will never be, satisfied with ANYTHING Ms. Clinton says or does because you approach it from your deeply ingrained dislike of her. Frankly (no pun intended), you and Ms. Dowd should be barred from reporting on Ms. Clinton since there is simply no way whatsoever that you could possibly do so with even a modicum of neutrality.
What we have here is a true case of the tail wagging the dog.
211
Maani......I agree. and Bruni/Dowd bring no credit to the NYT op ed page. Standards are down, and we get fluff and snark instead of issues----as our democrcy is being stolen out from under us. Big money drives our elections just like our entertainment.
I think Hillary's biggest problem with image is that she's trying to put out to the public something that she's not: warm, compassionate, genuine. With each of her efforts to change public perception she ends up looking like a phony. Unfortunately, for Hillary, that's who she is and I don't think that will change any time soon. If you try to look like someone or something that's truly not you, people see right through it. Hillary Clinton is not a 'people' person. If she was, she wouldn't have to keep pretending that she is.
134
I disagree. I think she is warm, compassionate, genuine but she is so in the way Hermione is warm, compassionate and genuine —a smart girl's version.
And that nobody will forgive.
So yes, she's got to pretend. All us smart girl's have to, because we learned a long time ago, that however much people SAY they hate a phony, they hate us being our honest selves a whole lot more. You have to occasionally pretend to be this other person so that people will think you are "real".
And that nobody will forgive.
So yes, she's got to pretend. All us smart girl's have to, because we learned a long time ago, that however much people SAY they hate a phony, they hate us being our honest selves a whole lot more. You have to occasionally pretend to be this other person so that people will think you are "real".
How would you know?
I would say that Clinton's problem is that she is not comfortable with campaigning. The only reason she doesn't look genuine is because she tries to look comfortable. As others have pointed out, when it comes to having a work ethic, to having ideas on policy, to inspiring the people who work for her, to caring for the country, she is totally genuine.
Whoever would have thunk,
She'd talk about Lenny's junk,
In the hope of seeming normal,
And just a bit less formal?
What a heaping load of bunk!
She'd talk about Lenny's junk,
In the hope of seeming normal,
And just a bit less formal?
What a heaping load of bunk!
6
I hope Mrs. Clinton has something better up her sleeve than this sad contrivance. There's a sense of empty presumption about her campaign to date that she can't seem to shake and this event only adds to the impression of someone clumsily trying to fill up a deficit.
Alas, she's working on the wrong one.
Demographic tweaks will not save Clinton. The candidate needs to find her voice and her passion. If she had offered a significant message, I don't know the email stories (which even the legitimate media is now routinely mishandling) would have gained such traction. But that task has fallen to her chief competitor. And, eventually, people are going to stop listening.
Alas, she's working on the wrong one.
Demographic tweaks will not save Clinton. The candidate needs to find her voice and her passion. If she had offered a significant message, I don't know the email stories (which even the legitimate media is now routinely mishandling) would have gained such traction. But that task has fallen to her chief competitor. And, eventually, people are going to stop listening.
3
I don't want a candidate to "divert" me. I want a candidate who is capable, experienced, and right on the issues that I feel are important. I don't need a stand-up comedian in the White House. So as far as I am concerned, Clinton can skip the skits. I do realize, however, that we live in a nation of juveniles who crave that kind of ingratiation, so I suppose us policy wonks will have to live with the calculated pandering.
28
We live in a nation where too much attention is given to juveniles.
This is a direct result of having too many juveniles running rampant in what can only be called an at large juvenile main-stream media.
Entertainment entities catering to juvenile behavior is also ever present.
"As you sow, so shall you reap."
This is a direct result of having too many juveniles running rampant in what can only be called an at large juvenile main-stream media.
Entertainment entities catering to juvenile behavior is also ever present.
"As you sow, so shall you reap."
Bravo, Mr. Bruni.
But I take exception with your comment that "she show us something more raw, that she weep or bleed or chirp or quip, that a policy wonk isn’t enough, that a résumé is only the start."
No, I just want her to step up and tell us what she believes, and what she will fight for if she's president. I know why Bernie Sanders is running, but haven't a real clue why Clinton is.
If we are to blame anyone (other than Clinton herself) perhaps it should be Debbie Wasserman Schultz who is trying to shield Clinton from rigorous debates on the issues. If the Republicans can step before the American people and have at it, why can't the Democrats?
But I take exception with your comment that "she show us something more raw, that she weep or bleed or chirp or quip, that a policy wonk isn’t enough, that a résumé is only the start."
No, I just want her to step up and tell us what she believes, and what she will fight for if she's president. I know why Bernie Sanders is running, but haven't a real clue why Clinton is.
If we are to blame anyone (other than Clinton herself) perhaps it should be Debbie Wasserman Schultz who is trying to shield Clinton from rigorous debates on the issues. If the Republicans can step before the American people and have at it, why can't the Democrats?
18
" I know why Bernie Sanders is running, but haven't a real clue why Clinton is."
I find that deeply ironic as Hillary Clinton has been telling us for 20 years why she runs. It would take a 2 second google search to find out what she believes in. She's been steady as a rock and said it over and over in her public life. Perhaps it's how people listen that is the problem.
I find that deeply ironic as Hillary Clinton has been telling us for 20 years why she runs. It would take a 2 second google search to find out what she believes in. She's been steady as a rock and said it over and over in her public life. Perhaps it's how people listen that is the problem.
I adore you a frank Bruini but your headline ENRAGED me. I just expect more from you.
PAJAMA PARTY??? Are you kidding me, man?
You've reduced a former Secretary of State and our leading Presidential candidate to an offensive, dismissive stereotype that brings to mind immature and silly tween girls....who by the way....don't deserve cultural derision either.
And for what sin!? For hanging out with Lena Dunham? What is so wrong with that? What makes Lena Dunham or Amy Schumer any less relevant culturally than you??
I'm appalled. Where was your editor? Didn't anyone suggest you might find a more elegant way of making your point without resorting to offensive terminology?
Enough, NY Tumes. The double standard shown in this newspaper has been astounding. Time you fools hired more women because your biased and bigoted lens slips out every time you write about Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump.
This is precisely why I will be voting for Mrs. Clinton....because the lack of balance in the think tank of the world has gotten us to a place where women's rights are at a low point. #62milliongirld indeed!
I'm literally shaking as I write this and I'm not normally ths flammable. I think it's because I am so disappointed that my favorite author and columnist Frank Bruini has shown himself no smarter than the rest.
Pajama party.....wow. Just wow.
PAJAMA PARTY??? Are you kidding me, man?
You've reduced a former Secretary of State and our leading Presidential candidate to an offensive, dismissive stereotype that brings to mind immature and silly tween girls....who by the way....don't deserve cultural derision either.
And for what sin!? For hanging out with Lena Dunham? What is so wrong with that? What makes Lena Dunham or Amy Schumer any less relevant culturally than you??
I'm appalled. Where was your editor? Didn't anyone suggest you might find a more elegant way of making your point without resorting to offensive terminology?
Enough, NY Tumes. The double standard shown in this newspaper has been astounding. Time you fools hired more women because your biased and bigoted lens slips out every time you write about Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump.
This is precisely why I will be voting for Mrs. Clinton....because the lack of balance in the think tank of the world has gotten us to a place where women's rights are at a low point. #62milliongirld indeed!
I'm literally shaking as I write this and I'm not normally ths flammable. I think it's because I am so disappointed that my favorite author and columnist Frank Bruini has shown himself no smarter than the rest.
Pajama party.....wow. Just wow.
430
Headlines are typically written by editors, not by the author of the story or column, so your criticism of Mr. Bruni is most likely misdirected.
1
Well he wrote the darn words himself......
3
It's not the hanging out, it's the reason for doing it.
I also plan to be more spontaneous, starting tomorrow at exactly 9:35 AM.
18
Yeesh! Am I the only one that likes smart, prepared and boring? Let's have two presidents in a row that are more cerebral than visceral. Do you think we can pull that off??
We have just got to shorten our campaign process, it's September 2015 for God's sake!
We have just got to shorten our campaign process, it's September 2015 for God's sake!
121
Bruni has it exactly right.
What the electorate pays attention to this early in a race are not policy-related topics. I'm a life-long Democrat, but i cringe at HRC's deflections, secretive instincts, 6-figure speaking fees from Goldman-Sachs, and stonewalling half-truths.
The "new Hillary" is forced and contrived. She has largely good ideas but is terrible at being a candidate. If she's the Democratic candidate (I'd greatly prefer Warren or Sanders), I'll very likely vote for her, but without much enthusiasm.
What the electorate pays attention to this early in a race are not policy-related topics. I'm a life-long Democrat, but i cringe at HRC's deflections, secretive instincts, 6-figure speaking fees from Goldman-Sachs, and stonewalling half-truths.
The "new Hillary" is forced and contrived. She has largely good ideas but is terrible at being a candidate. If she's the Democratic candidate (I'd greatly prefer Warren or Sanders), I'll very likely vote for her, but without much enthusiasm.
8
Nice try, Frank.
Polls suggest that she is the most hated politician in America since Richard Nixon and Jimmy Carter. She is routinely described as "arrogant, grasping and nasty", relying 100% on her husband's coattails to reach her current position.
Keep cheering for this nag, Frank. You are our best hope of recapturing the White House in 2016!
Polls suggest that she is the most hated politician in America since Richard Nixon and Jimmy Carter. She is routinely described as "arrogant, grasping and nasty", relying 100% on her husband's coattails to reach her current position.
Keep cheering for this nag, Frank. You are our best hope of recapturing the White House in 2016!
12
And yet she leads everyone in your party, head to head. What does that say about you guys? Hahahahaha!
9
Carter and Nixon? Jimmy Carter has dedicated his life to helping the poor, yet he is as reviled as Nixon? This country really has a skewed set of values if we place Carter in the same category as Nixon. If we can't distinguish between the two then we truly are doomed.
6
here are so many misogynistic phrases that sneak into the comments about Hillary Clinton. "Keep cheering for this nag," is offensive!
5
I couldn't agree more. Hillary Clinton has to stop trying to be what she isn't - in this latest embarrassing case, a hip funny girl in the body of a 67-year-old grandmother. Authenticity is the essential ingredient for successful candidates (the lack of it is what sank Mitt Romney). All we need from Hillary is to see her for what I presume she is at her core: a bright, practical, well-informed woman who listens well, speaks well and who's passionate about certain big issues (most importantly, women's rights). Capable of spontaneity, yes. But spontaneous about what matters to her most. Even after all these years, we're still not sure what that is.
2
It's easy to dismiss campaigning as meaningless, but it does bring out a lot of skills and talents that are useful in governing and in rallying popular and political support once in office. Forget the silly stuff about the emails, but Clinton is not a particularly good campaigner. That's why we keep having the kinds of discussions that Mr. Bruni's column exemplifies. In a comparison he might enjoy, campaigning resembles student evaluations. Strong ones are not always the sign of a good teacher -- one may be just "easy" or a popular personality, but weak evaluations from significant numbers of students are always the sign of problems that need to be addressed. It's hard to claim to be an effective teacher if those taught respond with hostility, indifference, or disdain. The problems with Clinton's campaigning (as in 2008) are bad signs, and we'll all be in deep trouble, if we only discover that when she loses a general election to heaven knows who on the Republican side.
55
"Forget the silly stuff about the emails, but Clinton is not a particularly good campaigner." So true. If she were she would have been the president now. Perhaps, just perhaps, we wouldn't have this Syrian misery and this huge ISIS problem. Both are horrific.
1
This says it all-Bruni, if you want to make constructive use of your valuable column inches, instead of the kind of comments you might throw over your shoulder at a dinner party, study a specific set of issues and review with people who know about the subjects ( not with the shallow partisan talking heads) what each candidate plans to do about the issue.
37
Hillary is, heart and soul, a tight-lipped corporate lawyer. She's more a political insider than gifted politician, and so it's no surprise that she's an uninspiring candidate.
If she wins the election as expected, it will be because the Republicans nominated someone so repulsive that America's aversion to Hillary was overwhelmed by their aversion to right-wing fanaticism.
If she wins the election as expected, it will be because the Republicans nominated someone so repulsive that America's aversion to Hillary was overwhelmed by their aversion to right-wing fanaticism.
7
Nothing looks worse than someone who will never be hip, trying so hard.
6
Think: Richard Nixon, circa 1968, appearing on Laugh-In and saying "Sock it to ME?"
It was not hip, but pathetic. (He did win anyways.)
It was not hip, but pathetic. (He did win anyways.)
2
One more column parsing whether Hillary Clinton is authentic? Newsflash: very few people in politics are authentic (only Barack Obama and Bernie Sanders come to mind right now). Hillary Clinton clearly lies somewhere near them and far away from the Republicans, which may be as good as it gets. How about asking whether she is competent to do the job she is seeking instead?
820
I like Obama alright, but authentic? Please. I agree that Bernie is authentic, but he cannot win in the electoral college!
1
Actually the last President we had that was truly "authentic" was Harry Truman.
1
She is very competent on IT and servers. Isn't she?
ahhhh Lena Dunham … I mean c'mon is there a show more boring than Girl's … I watched it once, it is a show about nothing, but unlike Seinfeld, it handles nothing in the most boring manner possible … maybe this is Hill's effort to lock down the Brooklyn vote … who knows, but it smacks of desperation … but at any rate there is no better person to contrast with the stodgy, moderate, 'show me the money' Hillary than the bubbly, pseudo liberal, off beat Lena Dunham
3
I absolutely agree - Lena Dunham is untalented and uninteresting. If she didn't have such a potty mouth no one would ever even notice her.
2
What you see is what you get: A calculating, inauthentic, and completely disingenuous woman who feels entitled to be President.
10
Perhaps her best tactic would be to just state that she loves people, cares about the nation, but is unusually socially awkward for a politician, and just go with the awkward. State that she's spent a lifetime of service, highlighting her successes, but state she's never been homecoming queen or won a popularity contest. That would get her past the Nixon comparisons.
Go from there to pictures, not of her, but of people who have benefited from her accomplishments. "Vote for them."
She's not going to become Homecoming Queen at this point. She should sell what she has. The Republicans are challenging people to list one thing she has accomplished in all the many positions she has held. That's the question she should answer, together with what she is set to do tomorrow.
Then, she looks into the camera and tells the viewers that she loves working for them and is asking that the allow her to continue to deliver. If they want to watch somebody who is socially excellent, she'll send Bill out to talk to the press. Or they can just watch any TV talk show.
Go from there to pictures, not of her, but of people who have benefited from her accomplishments. "Vote for them."
She's not going to become Homecoming Queen at this point. She should sell what she has. The Republicans are challenging people to list one thing she has accomplished in all the many positions she has held. That's the question she should answer, together with what she is set to do tomorrow.
Then, she looks into the camera and tells the viewers that she loves working for them and is asking that the allow her to continue to deliver. If they want to watch somebody who is socially excellent, she'll send Bill out to talk to the press. Or they can just watch any TV talk show.
502
Service?? pray explain. Maybe she should have divorced Bill -- and truly gone it alone I worry about his baggage -- who do you think put forward the legislation that unfettered Wall Street?
Hillary is compulsive -- and not clear but the American public is far to immature to accept the fact that the system can only do so much for them and eventually they will have to do something for themselves. I am thinking about guaranteeing education thru college for everyone!! (Give me a break!)
Hillary is compulsive -- and not clear but the American public is far to immature to accept the fact that the system can only do so much for them and eventually they will have to do something for themselves. I am thinking about guaranteeing education thru college for everyone!! (Give me a break!)
1
If she can't come across as trustworthy ("socially excellent") with Americans she'll be ineffective dealing with our foreign affairs.
The problem is that she can't give anyone even just one major accomplishment.....and just being Sec of State isn't an accomplishment...neither is being married to Bill the women serial abuser.
Go ahead and be my guest....name me 3 of her biggest accomplishment....good luck...lol
Go ahead and be my guest....name me 3 of her biggest accomplishment....good luck...lol
Corporate media stories about the stars of Perpetual Campaign $eason seem to fall into two general categories: shallow personality pieces, and shallow pieces purporting to criticize the shallowness of it all.
So, just as Frank Bruni predictably snaps at the irresistible bait of Lean Dunham and Hillary Clinton cashing in on one another, here I am, jumping at the bait of a tiny reader comment box. My shallow thought of the day:
Lena and Hillary are made for each other. When Lena's "haters" recently made fun of her for a selfie of herself in boxer shorts that she posted on Twitter, she went full victim and promptly subcontracted her Twitter account to one of her minions. When Hillary's "haters" strike, as they do on an hourly basis, one of her assistants or surrogates strikes back with the aggrieved counter-Twitter and fund-raising appeal. Today, "Huma Abedin," addressing me as "Friend", begged for one dollar to prove that I have Hillary's back against the Haters.
This is what democracy has devolved into: mindless entertainment. You can't even deride it as "infotainment" any more. Because far from being informative, contemporary political discourse seems designed to deflect our attention from the issues that really matter, as well as reduce us into mere spectators who root for our favorite corporate red or blue team.
Meanwhile, unfettered capitalism is eating us alive as the planet alternately burns and drowns. I miss the Pope already.
http://kmgarcia2000.blogspot.com/
So, just as Frank Bruni predictably snaps at the irresistible bait of Lean Dunham and Hillary Clinton cashing in on one another, here I am, jumping at the bait of a tiny reader comment box. My shallow thought of the day:
Lena and Hillary are made for each other. When Lena's "haters" recently made fun of her for a selfie of herself in boxer shorts that she posted on Twitter, she went full victim and promptly subcontracted her Twitter account to one of her minions. When Hillary's "haters" strike, as they do on an hourly basis, one of her assistants or surrogates strikes back with the aggrieved counter-Twitter and fund-raising appeal. Today, "Huma Abedin," addressing me as "Friend", begged for one dollar to prove that I have Hillary's back against the Haters.
This is what democracy has devolved into: mindless entertainment. You can't even deride it as "infotainment" any more. Because far from being informative, contemporary political discourse seems designed to deflect our attention from the issues that really matter, as well as reduce us into mere spectators who root for our favorite corporate red or blue team.
Meanwhile, unfettered capitalism is eating us alive as the planet alternately burns and drowns. I miss the Pope already.
http://kmgarcia2000.blogspot.com/
24
The NYT never misses an opportunity to do another puff piece on Hillary Clinton,
and now they are trying to be her advisors and confidants. Hillary's problem is
that she is simply not liked by most people, and she is a patrician of the establishment. If she is president, she's going to spend a lot more time with Goldman Sachs that she ever will with Lenny Kravitz.
and now they are trying to be her advisors and confidants. Hillary's problem is
that she is simply not liked by most people, and she is a patrician of the establishment. If she is president, she's going to spend a lot more time with Goldman Sachs that she ever will with Lenny Kravitz.
8
"Interview"?
We should as a people come up with a different word for what went on here. An "interview" is a questioning by an independent third person looking for the truth in subject's view regardless of the subject's objectives. In an interview, the questioner actually tries to challenge the person, asks hard questions, follows up on inconsistencies and errors, and reserves the rights to the final cut.
This was more of a pantomime of an interview. It has the look and feel of one (all the lights and cameras and do forth) and had the back-and-forth question and answer of a real interview. However, at it's core, it was for the purpose of putting the subject in the best light possible by throwing agreed-upon questions for the purpose of raising the subject's appeal to a certain viewership. Ms. Dunham would not have asked anything that would have put Ms. Clinton in bad light or hurt her. She wouldn't have pushed on anything Ms. Clinton said, even if it was blatantly false. Even if Ms. Clinton had let out something compromising or unhelpful, it would simply be edited out.
We should as a people come up with a different word for what went on here. An "interview" is a questioning by an independent third person looking for the truth in subject's view regardless of the subject's objectives. In an interview, the questioner actually tries to challenge the person, asks hard questions, follows up on inconsistencies and errors, and reserves the rights to the final cut.
This was more of a pantomime of an interview. It has the look and feel of one (all the lights and cameras and do forth) and had the back-and-forth question and answer of a real interview. However, at it's core, it was for the purpose of putting the subject in the best light possible by throwing agreed-upon questions for the purpose of raising the subject's appeal to a certain viewership. Ms. Dunham would not have asked anything that would have put Ms. Clinton in bad light or hurt her. She wouldn't have pushed on anything Ms. Clinton said, even if it was blatantly false. Even if Ms. Clinton had let out something compromising or unhelpful, it would simply be edited out.
1
Pathetic.
Hillary's attempts at branding are even bigger put-offs to real liberals than her baggage.
I hope that when voters vote, they won't be thinking of a candidates fame, which celebs the candidates hang out with, or whether the candidate is their 'friend'. When voters vote they should vote for the person who can get done what they want done, and do it without the fluff. Elections shouldn't be a popularity contest.
Go Bernie.
Hillary's attempts at branding are even bigger put-offs to real liberals than her baggage.
I hope that when voters vote, they won't be thinking of a candidates fame, which celebs the candidates hang out with, or whether the candidate is their 'friend'. When voters vote they should vote for the person who can get done what they want done, and do it without the fluff. Elections shouldn't be a popularity contest.
Go Bernie.
14
I assume the "we" in the article Bruni refers to is himself and Maureen Dowd. Well, you can take the first step by stopping with pieces like this. Don't identify the problem and then perpetuate it. Just take a Clinton time out. Move on.
184
Maybe the two of them could move on to Carly bashing.
In the final count Bill will pull the election out for Hillary and they will waltz hand in hand back into the White House.
Hillary has been running too long and forming alliances for her to lose now. The GOP would have had a chance with all her problems but they are putting forth no serious candidates.
If her opponents were anyone other than the inept GOP Hillary would be in trouble.
Hillary has been running too long and forming alliances for her to lose now. The GOP would have had a chance with all her problems but they are putting forth no serious candidates.
If her opponents were anyone other than the inept GOP Hillary would be in trouble.
2
@Jimmy: if so, why didn't Bill pull out all the stops for Hillary in 2008 -- when she was only 59?
The truth is - Hillary is simply not a good campaigner. And her presidential campaign staff is simply not good at running a presidential campaign.
As someone who would admires her and would like to support her, but just cannot bring myself to do so at this point, my advice to Mrs. Clinton is this: ditch your presidential campaign staff; bring in a few outsiders who can shake things up and give honest advice, not sycophants who always say yes and don't have the guts, nerve and/or instinct to say no to you; and, most importantly, just be yourself - smart and focused on policies, not personality.