BBC News Online: Talking Point

Is Bill Clinton fit to be President of the USA?

President Clinton interviewed on National Public Radio ('4"11)

President Clinton has denied that he had an affair with Ms Lewinsky. He has also denied that he had encouraged her to lie on oath about their relationship.

If the allegations are true, and, more importantly can be proved, then this would constitute perjury, a federal crime, as well as obstruction of justice. If proved this could lead to the president's impeachment.

An independent prosecutor, Kenneth Starr, who is already looking into Mr Clinton's financial affairs, has widened his investigations to include the latest allegations.

In 17 hours of secretly taped conversations, Ms Lewinsky is said to speak in detail about an affair with Bill Clinton.

The First Lady, Hilary Rodham Clinton, has spoken out on American television against what she describes as the "firestorm of lies" directed at her and her husband. She said "The great story here is a vast right-wing conspiracy who have been conspiring against my husband since he first ran for office."

A look at the world's press shows that people are fascinated by such goings-on in the White House. British correspondents say that the American public is interested, but doesn't see the alleged affairs as politically threatening.

CBS correspondent says "You don't do the intern" ('3"26)

"United States of Amorality. A devastating indictment of a nation that has abandoned the puritan ideals of its founders," said the Daily Mail in London.

But should a man facing these allegations also fill the role of the world's most powerful man? Should he go? Has America had enough?

As a mother of young impressionable boys I am appalled at the role model of our president...
Paris Arcediano, USA

If the President committed perjury then he deserves what he gets...
Langley McKelvy, USA

It is just a sex scandle. Even if he lied here, it doesn't matter...
Tony Zhang, USA

Your Reaction:

• • Criminal offence
  • The Presidential Office
  • Not the whole truth?
  • Conspiracy?
  • Personal matter
  • Scandal
  • Role model




• Doing a good job




• Whatever one might think about his sex life, the President has delivered the goods on deficit reduction and global free trade, and the United States has enjoyed a long period of prosperity during his tenure. Furthermore, the investigation against him has been tainted by extreme partisanship.
  Susan Davis, USA


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Is Bill Clinton fit to be President of the USA?

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