Conclusion

Abstract

Clinton’s ability to endure allegations of scandal while simultaneously conducting the duties of the presidential office was, in part, testament to his familiarity with, and understanding of, the role and mechanics of scandal in contemporary American politics. Having successfully accommodated several scandal allegations while both Governor and President, he nevertheless found, to his cost, that the unlikely evolution of the Lewinsky scandal was detrimental to his reputation within the elite circles of government. Yet Clinton, for all the problems encountered, conducted two full terms in office, entertained high levels of public approval, particularly in his second term, and gained respect in foreign affairs and in the international community as a consequence of his efforts to promote peace in several troubled nations.