LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — During the recent festivities marking the 20th anniversary of the Clinton Presidential Library, Bill and Hillary Rodham Clinton shared their thoughts on the importance of civic engagement in the wake of disappointing electoral outcomes. Both expressed that it is crucial for voters, particularly those disheartened by the presidential election results, to remain involved and contribute positively to the community.
Bill Clinton addressed the audience in a crowded theater, encouraging attendees to stay engaged even amidst a polarized political climate. He emphasized the need for constructive communication with opposing viewpoints during these challenging times. This conversation took place shortly after Donald Trump secured victory over Vice President Kamala Harris in the recent election. “We’re just passing through, and we all need to just calm down and do something that builds people up instead of tears them down,” he stated.
Hillary Clinton, who previously faced Trump in the 2016 election, acknowledged the challenging years ahead for those disillusioned by current political decisions. She advised individuals to seek daily affirmations to combat the stress of ongoing political turmoil, noting that chronic agitation regarding politics could adversely affect one’s well-being. “It’s important to find something that makes you feel good about the day,” she remarked, underscoring the need for resilience in the face of disappointment.
The Clintons participated in a panel discussion alongside journalist Laura Ling, who was freed from North Korean detention in a mission backed by Bill Clinton in 2009. This discussion was part of a weekend of events celebrating the library’s two-decade-long history in Little Rock. Plans are in motion for an update of the library exhibits, as well as an expansion that will house Hillary Clinton’s personal archives to make the library more modern and welcoming.
Hillary Clinton highlighted the renovation efforts, stating that the goal is to create an open space for people to gather and forge connections. Bill Clinton also offered advice to those feeling disheartened by the election, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in building a better future. “If that’s the way you keep score, then you ought to be trying to run up the score,” he advised, promoting a proactive approach to community leadership.
Hillary echoed his sentiments, encouraging everyone to come together and strategize for future successes, inspiring cheers from the audience. The event also included a panel featuring cast members from the popular NBC series “The West Wing” as well as former staffers from the Clinton administration.
This weekend’s gathering reflected a reunion spirit among former Clinton White House team members, supporters, and friends. Notable figures such as former Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe and political strategist James Carville were present. McAuliffe reminisced about dining at a local favorite, Doe’s Eat Place, a hotspot during Clinton’s political rise in 1992. He conveyed optimism regarding the library’s future, stating, “This is not only about the past, but it’s more importantly about the future.” He emphasized a collective yearning for a return to the principles that defined the Clinton legacy after the recent tough election cycle.
