Monica Lewinsky Suggests Bill Clinton Should Have Resigned Over Affair

Monica Lewinsky’s Perspective on Bill Clinton’s Affair

In a recent interview on the popular podcast ‘Call Her Daddy,’ Monica Lewinsky, the former White House intern embroiled in a scandal with former President Bill Clinton, stated that the proper response to their affair becoming public would have been for Clinton to resign. Lewinsky expressed this opinion while discussing the implications of their relationship and the subsequent media portrayal of her.

“I think that the right way to handle a situation like that would have been to probably say it was nobody’s business and to resign,” Lewinsky shared with podcast host Alex Cooper. This remark comes after Lewinsky noted that she has rarely been asked how she believes the situation should have been managed. She suggested that there could have been a way to remain in office without resorting to deception that ultimately harmed a young person just beginning her career.

The Impact of the Scandal

Bill Clinton’s admission of the affair led to a historic impeachment in 1998, raising important discussions about accountability in the highest office. Lewinsky reflected on the gravity of such a powerful position, acknowledging the complexities involved. “At the same time, I hear myself say that and it’s like ‘Okay, but we’re also talking about the most powerful office in the world,’” she remarked. “I don’t want to be naive either.”

Media Representation of Lewinsky

During the interview, Lewinsky also discussed her experience with media coverage at the time of the scandal. Initially, she sensed a moment of sympathy, but that quickly faded. “I think for five seconds, it was sympathetic, and maybe after about a week, once the White House got in gear, I was very quickly painted as a stalker, a whore, mentally unstable, a bimbo,” she explained. The portrayal left her feeling as though a distorted version of herself was created, one that did not align with her true identity.

The Nature of Gaslighting

Reflecting on Clinton’s infamous denial of the affair when he stated, “I did not have sexual relations with that woman,” Lewinsky revealed the emotional toll it took on her. “It was gaslighting,” she said. “I think that was what I experienced on a pretty large scale. It was devastating.” Such manipulative tactics, she argues, were meant to protect the White House’s image while disregarding her emotional well-being.

Lewinsky’s Growing Advocacy Against Bullying

Today, Lewinsky advocates against bullying and has taken on a new role as a podcast host. In her series ‘Reclaiming with Monica Lewinsky,’ she discusses the long-lasting effects of public scrutiny and the importance of mental health awareness. This activism highlights how her past experiences have shaped her present outlook on media representation and personal empowerment.

Reflecting on Responsibility

While acknowledging the severity of Clinton’s actions, Lewinsky does not shy away from admitting her own mistakes during the affair. “Let’s recognize that while there were so many ways that Bill’s behavior was more reprehensible than mine, I did make mistakes,” she clarified. This statement reinforces her understanding of accountability, emphasizing that personal responsibility is crucial, regardless of the circumstances.

Clinton’s Current Reflections

Former President Clinton has remained a topic of conversation in the years following the scandal. He has campaigned for various political figures, including President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Recently, Clinton released a memoir titled “Citizens,” which reflects on his life, including the involvement with Lewinsky.

In his memoir, Clinton expressed lingering feelings about the past, writing, “I live with it all the time.” He also acknowledged Lewinsky’s work on bullying, wishing her nothing but success as she continues to transform her narrative into a positive advocacy platform.

A Call for Change

The interview between Lewinsky and Cooper has rekindled discussions surrounding accountability, media ethics, and the long-lasting effects of public humiliation. Lewinsky’s insights serve as an important reminder of the need for compassion and understanding in the face of scandal. As society continues to grapple with issues of personal responsibility and the complexities of high-profile relationships, Lewinsky’s story remains relevant.

As we reflect on these conversations, it is essential to consider how such experiences influence not just those directly involved but also the broader social and political landscapes. Lewinsky’s journey, marked by both challenge and resilience, continues to spark dialogue on the dynamics of power, trust, and the importance of integrity in leadership.