When Bill Clinton took the stage at the Democratic National Convention at the United Center, he received applause fitting for a two-term former president. However, the enthusiasm was not as pronounced as when his wife, Hillary Clinton, spoke earlier in the week.
Despite leaving office almost 25 years ago, Bill Clinton remains a cherished figure in many parts of the Democratic Party. His speech resonated with the crowd, sparking moments of standing ovation as he delivered witty lines reminiscent of his presidency. One notable quip urged Democrats to focus on “I’s” rather than “lies” when listening to Donald Trump. However, Hillary Clinton’s address was seen as more impactful.
Historically, Bill has been viewed as the more effective communicator, but this week, Hillary captivated the audience with a more dynamic speech. She shone a light on Kamala Harris’s potential to break significant barriers and confidently remarked that Trump was “on the run now.”
As Democrats have begun to move past the disappointment of Hillary’s 2016 loss, she has gained substantial appeal, especially among younger party members. Many in Gen Z have a more personal connection to Hillary, having grown up with her political journey, while Bill’s presidency predates their birth. For them, her 2016 campaign and the Women’s March that followed became pivotal moments in their political awakening.
Although Bill Clinton was not the first choice for many young Democrats in 2016—most rallied around Bernie Sanders—Hillary has emerged as a near-iconic figure among the current generation. One attendee passionately expressed her eagerness to hear from Hillary at the convention, showcasing the admiration she holds among younger voters. This sentiment reflects a shift from bitterness over her 2016 defeat to a newfound respect for her tenacity and leadership.
At a Gen Z-focused event, a local council member noted that his favorite moment from the convention occurred during Hillary’s remarks on Trump’s legal troubles, where the crowd began chanting “Lock him up!” In a moment of unity and nostalgia, Clinton nodded in agreement, which resonated strongly with younger Democrats.
In past conventions, Bill was known for electrifying moments, having participated in every DNC since 1980. His defense of Obama’s presidency was particularly memorable, earning him the title of “secretary of explaining stuff.” However, his most recent engagement was considerably muted, as he faced the ramifications of past scandals and changing social perspectives. With his public image somewhat diminished after the #MeToo movement, younger attendees showed indifference toward him, often expressing a preference for Hillary.
While Bill’s return to the convention did not stir controversy among attendees, the focus was primarily on Hillary. His speech was longer, but clarity and engagement faltered at times, marked by minor slip-ups. He used humor about aging to connect with the audience, humorously claiming to be younger than Trump.
Ultimately, Clinton’s appeal lies not in his ability to rally a crowd but to listen and articulate. While he shared statistics lauding Democratic leadership, the applause he garnered was less about him and more about the legacy he continues to represent. Though he’s always received a warm welcome, he finds himself in the shadow of a more relevant and dynamic Hillary Clinton.