Former President Bill Clinton shares intimate insights in his latest memoir "Citizen," addressing a pivotal moment in a 2018 interview that reignited discussion on the Monica Lewinsky scandal amid the #MeToo movement.
The book details Clinton's surprise and irritation during an interview with journalist Craig Melvin, where questions resurfaced about the scandal and its implications in the current era, Fox News reported.
In "Citizen," Clinton describes his unexpected confrontation during an interview on NBC's "Today Show." Interviewer Craig Melvin posed questions about the former president's affair with Monica Lewinsky during a time when the #MeToo movement was casting new light on past transgressions. This took Clinton by surprise, particularly when asked if he would have resigned if the scandal had occurred in the present climate.
Despite being caught off guard, Clinton stood firm on his belief that the impeachment proceedings were illegitimate. He insisted that the charges needed to be challenged rather than capitulating to public pressure. Clinton reiterated feeling remorseful about the scandal, stating he had offered apologies on several occasions, though not directly to Lewinsky.
During the interview, Melvin referenced an essay from Lewinsky reflecting on how the #MeToo era had reshaped her understanding of sexual harassment. Clinton fought to manage his frustration during this line of questioning and addressed it in his book, noting his surprise.
He elaborated on his irritation during the interview, feeling wrongly accused of never having apologized to Lewinsky. Clinton clarified that although he had apologized publicly, he acknowledged that he had not done so personally, a point which became a focal contention of the discussion.
Clinton prepared himself for inquiries about his failure to apologize directly to Lewinsky. However, he was unprepared to be accused of not apologizing at all. He recounted in his memoir that the "Today Show" interview was not his "finest hour," attributing part of this to Melvin's youth and perceived gaps in historical context.
The former leader also critiqued Melvin, saying he was "barely in his teens when all this happened, and probably hadn’t been properly briefed." Regardless of personal frustrations, Clinton wrote that "it’s always better to save your anger for what happens to other people, not yourself."
Clinton expressed empathy and respect for Lewinsky's subsequent work and public life. He stated explicitly his desire for her to thrive, recognizing the ongoing consequences and reflections of the past.
The former president shares that despite moving forward with his life, the repercussions of the scandal are persistent and unavoidable. Clinton's book reveals that he is regularly confronting these past experiences, acknowledging his ongoing contemplation of the events.
Clinton praised Lewinsky’s anti-bullying efforts, extending his well wishes and acknowledging her advocacy as a reflection on harassment and growth. In 2021, Lewinsky addressed whether Clinton should apologize for past actions.
Clinton's new memoir offers a personal account of his mindset and feelings in light of the interview four years ago. It provides readers with an insight into his perspective on historical events that have shaped his legacy and public persona.
As the narrative unfolds, "Citizen" serves as both a reflection and a reckoning of Clinton's time in the political spotlight. The memoir paints a portrait of a leader grappling with complicated aspects of his past while wishing former adversaries well.
"Citizen" offers insight into Clinton's reflective journey, highlighting the complexities of grappling with his historical legacy.
