Bill's back
Oxford got another taste of celebrity this week as Bill and Chelsea Clinton came to town. Embassy 4x4s, police and secret service agents were out in force. But Bill Clinton was doing what he does best: acting as if he were anyone other than a celebrity. In an age when politicians hone their public image, it was refreshing to see the ex-most powerful man on the planet wearing some of the tackiest looking jogging gear this side of Walmart.
The truth is, though, that this is all part of Clinton's act. One of the reasons for his widespread popularity outside of Washington was his rare ability to relate to ordinary voters just as well as slick lobbyists. He seemed to be following on in that tradition during his stay in Oxford. Like any student, he is reported to have missed tutorials, and he still doesn't seem to be past getting "sloshed" at formal hall.
The sad thing is, he probably had a time at Oxford all those years ago that Ms Chelsea Clinton will only be able to dream about. Losing it at Park End just isn't an option when you are the most prestigious pull on campus. Likewise, if she smokes, it'll have hit the tabloid press before she even has a chance to inhale.
Spending your teenage years in the White House must be a poisoned chalice. Chelsea has the brand name to get ahead in American politics, but no chance to gain the common touch that made her father the politician he is. And it'll be hard to skip American history lectures if your Dad is giving them.
1st Jun 2001