"Bill and Hillary Clinton have one central idea in their uncluttered, ambitious minds: Hillary in 2008. Let Bush get re-elected, use the '04 primaries and general election to clean out the underbrush of competing Democratic candidates, and proceed unimpeded to the '08 nomination"
About this Quote
The quote by Dick Morris uses a speculative glimpse into the tactical political thinking credited to Costs and Hillary Clinton during the early 2000s. Morris suggests that the Clintons were singularly concentrated on Hillary Clinton's possible run for the presidency in 2008, rather than prioritizing the defeat of George W. Bush in the 2004 governmental election.
In this analysis, the quote implies a calculated technique by the Clintons, presuming that Hillary's candidacy was a long-lasting objective that required laying groundwork well before the 2008 election cycle. By suggesting that the Clintons were content to let Bush secure a 2nd term, Morris insinuates a prioritization of political positioning over immediate partisan success. This strategy includes utilizing the duration leading up to 2008 to reduce possible competition within the Democratic Party, allowing Hillary to become a clear frontrunner undisputed by other strong Democratic contenders.
The term "uncluttered, ambitious minds" emphasizes the concept that the Clintons had a clear and steadfast focus on this political goal. It recommends that their agenda was streamlined, with little space for diversions or competing interests. This paints a photo of the Clintons as pragmatic political operators, willing to make strategic sacrifices in the short term to protect long-term success.
Additionally, the expression "clear out the underbrush" is metaphorical, likening prospective Democratic competitors to obstacles or limitations that require to be cleared to make sure Hillary's path to the election is free of substantial obstacles. This metaphor highlights a view of politics as a battleground requiring meticulous preparation and method.
Overall, the quote captures a questionable perspective on political maneuvering, highlighting the complex and frequently Machiavellian nature of campaign methods within American political dynasties. Whether this properly reflects the Clintons' internal deliberations, it underscores the tactical calculations typically involved in high-stakes political ambitions.