Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Bill to get usual spouse's role in White House

David Usborne
Monday 31 December 2007 01:00 GMT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Hillary Clinton yesterday touted her experience as a hands-on first lady alongside her husband, Bill Clinton, as the hours ticked away before the presidential caucuses in Iowa on Thursday. The meeting will begin the state-by-state battle to pick two Democratic candidates who will face each other in national elections in November.

"I think my experience is unique," Mrs Clinton said in an assured interview on ABC television. But just as she spoke of her close involvement in decision-making in her husband's White House she indicated that, as president herself, she would limit his role in national security matters.

In events like the assassination of Benazir Bhutto, she does not envisage Bill Clinton participating in emergency National Security Council meetings, she said, adding that it "would not be appropriate".

"I think he would play the role spouses have always played for presidents," Mrs Clinton said. "He will not have a formal role, but just as presidents rely on wives, husbands, fathers, friends of long years, he will be my close confidant and adviser, as I was with him."

The Iowa caucus is a race between Mrs Clinton, Barack Obama and John Edwards.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in