Bill Clinton Unveils ‘Rules of Politics’ in Forthcoming Memoir
By Jake Beardslee ·
November 15, 2024
Former President Bill Clinton is offering a glimpse into his political playbook in his upcoming memoir, "Citizen." An excerpt published by People magazine reveals a set of guidelines Clinton calls his "Clinton's Rules of Politics," which he says have guided him for decades to "explain, enlighten and lighten up political conversations.” Andrew Craft / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The 42nd president, now 78, outlines 13 key principles, offering a mix of practical advice and philosophical reflections. Among the more memorable rules is the caution, “Never drink in public — you might act like yourself.” GREG WOHLFORD/ERIE TIMES-NEWS / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Clinton also observes the common political paradox that "Everyone is for change in general but often against it in particular — it depends on whose ox is being gored.” Gage Skidmore / Wikimedia
Clinton's rules extend to emotional intelligence, urging politicians to avoid bringing “your feelings to work” and to take criticism “seriously but not personally.” He also stresses resilience, stating, "You’re always most vulnerable when you feel invulnerable or when you’re angry and exhausted," and advocates for perseverance: “Don’t give up on people — if you dig long enough, there’s almost always still a person down there somewhere.” Jovanny Hernandez / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
He also acknowledges late Speaker Sam Rayburn (D-Texas) as the originator of a particularly forceful rule: “Never tell anyone to go to hell unless you can make them go.” Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division / Wikimedia
Reflecting on his wife Hillary Clinton's 2016 election loss, Clinton shares a new rule born from experience. He advises candidates to be wary of those who offer overly confident assurances: “If you’re ever in the room with someone who says … ‘but you’re going to win anyway,’ smile, thank them for their time and get out of that room as fast as you can.” Gage Skidmore / Wikimedia
"Citizen" is set to be released on Tuesday. Penguin Random House
