Analysis
Clinton's statement is a political and ideological assertion about the importance of the middle class to America's identity, rather than a factual claim that can be empirically verified. While the middle class has historically played a significant role in the U.S. economy and society, the statement frames it as an absolute necessity, which is subjective and open to interpretation. Fact-checking is limited to testable propositions, and this is not one of them.
Background
The statement was made during the 2012 Democratic National Convention, where Clinton emphasized economic policies aimed at strengthening the middle class. The middle class has long been a focal point in U.S. political discourse, often associated with economic stability and social mobility.
Verdict summary
The statement is a normative claim about national identity, not a verifiable factual assertion.
Sources consulted
Analysis
In his August 17, 1998, grand jury testimony, Bill Clinton acknowledged an 'inappropriate' and 'wrong' relationship with Monica Lewinsky, contradicting his earlier public denials. This admission was part of his testimony during the investigation into the Lewinsky scandal and his subsequent impeachment proceedings.
Background
The statement was made under oath during the independent counsel Kenneth Starr's investigation into Clinton's affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky. Clinton had previously denied the relationship in a January 1998 deposition for the Paula Jones sexual harassment case.
Verdict summary
Clinton admitted to an inappropriate relationship with Monica Lewinsky in his 1998 grand jury testimony.
Sources consulted
Analysis
The quote is accurately attributed to Bill Clinton's 1998 speech to the United Nations General Assembly. The remark reflects his administration's emphasis on global cooperation and development aid. No evidence suggests the quote is fabricated or taken out of context.
Background
In 1998, President Clinton addressed the UN, advocating for international collaboration on economic and humanitarian issues. This statement encapsulates his view that U.S. prosperity is linked to global stability and development.
Verdict summary
Clinton did make this statement during his 1998 UN address, and it aligns with his policy positions.
Sources consulted
Analysis
Clinton admitted he was not 'explicit enough' about his relationship with Lewinsky, which is true in that he avoided full transparency. However, the statement downplays his active role in encouraging others (e.g., aides, Lewinsky) to obscure the truth, such as through evasive legal definitions (e.g., 'it depends on what the meaning of *is* is'). Independent Counsel Kenneth Starr's report later documented efforts to conceal the affair.
Background
The statement was part of Clinton's August 17, 1998, nationally televised apology after months of denying the affair under oath. The Lewinsky scandal led to his impeachment for perjury and obstruction of justice, though he was acquitted by the Senate.
Verdict summary
Clinton's statement acknowledges a lack of clarity but omits his direct role in misleading others.
Sources consulted
Analysis
The quote aligns with Clinton's public remarks after the Columbine tragedy, where he emphasized non-violent conflict resolution. Transcripts and news reports from the time confirm this phrasing or close variations of it. The statement reflects his broader advocacy for gun control and anti-violence initiatives.
Background
The Columbine High School massacre occurred on April 20, 1999, prompting national discussions on gun violence and youth culture. Clinton addressed the nation multiple times in its aftermath, urging action on multiple fronts, including education and legislation. His speeches often stressed moral and social responsibility.
Verdict summary
Clinton did make this statement in a speech following the Columbine High School shooting in 1999.
Sources consulted
Analysis
While Clinton's declaration signaled a shift toward centrist policies and welfare reform, federal spending and the scope of government did not significantly shrink during or after his presidency. The statement was largely symbolic, reflecting a political pivot rather than a factual reduction in government size. Actual data shows federal outlays increased from $1.56 trillion in 1996 to $1.79 trillion by 2000 (adjusted for inflation).
Background
The 1996 State of the Union Address came after the Republican takeover of Congress in 1994, which pressured Clinton to adopt more conservative fiscal policies. His welfare reform (PRWORA) and balanced budget agreements were framed as reducing dependency, but government expansion continued in other areas like defense and healthcare.
Verdict summary
Clinton's statement was more rhetorical than literal, as government size and spending continued to grow in subsequent years.
Sources consulted
Analysis
The phrase was famously uttered by Clinton during a February 1992 campaign event in New Hampshire, where he engaged with a voter discussing economic struggles. It became a defining moment of his campaign, emphasizing his empathetic approach. The statement is well-documented in contemporary news coverage and biographies.
Background
The 1992 U.S. presidential campaign featured Bill Clinton as the Democratic nominee, running against incumbent Republican President George H.W. Bush. Clinton's campaign focused on economic issues and connecting with voters on a personal level, with the 'I feel your pain' remark encapsulating this strategy.
Verdict summary
Bill Clinton did say 'I feel your pain' during his 1992 presidential campaign.
Sources consulted
Analysis
The statement is a direct quote from Bill Clinton's August 17, 1998, grand jury testimony regarding his relationship with Monica Lewinsky. He used this phrasing while being questioned about the definition of 'is' in the context of his previous deposition. The quote is widely documented and verified in official transcripts.
Background
The testimony was part of the investigation into the Clinton-Lewinsky scandal, where Clinton was accused of perjury and obstruction of justice. His parsing of the word 'is' became a notable example of legalistic language in political discourse.
Verdict summary
Clinton did say this exact phrase during his 1998 grand jury testimony.
Sources consulted
Analysis
Bill Clinton initially denied under oath having 'sexual relations' with Monica Lewinsky, but later admitted to an 'inappropriate relationship' after evidence (including the infamous blue dress) emerged. The definition of 'sexual relations' in the Paula Jones case, where he testified, included the acts he later admitted to.
Background
The statement was made during the Monica Lewinsky scandal, which began in 1998 and led to Clinton's impeachment by the House of Representatives for perjury and obstruction of justice. The scandal involved an affair between Clinton and Lewinsky, a White House intern, and the subsequent cover-up.
Verdict summary
Clinton's statement was later proven false by his own admission and investigative findings.
Sources consulted
Analysis
This exact phrase appears in Bill Clinton's first inaugural address on January 20, 1993. It was part of his broader message about national renewal and optimism. The quote is widely documented in official transcripts and reputable sources.
Background
Clinton's 1993 inauguration marked the first Democratic presidency in 12 years. His speech emphasized unity, economic revival, and a call to service, with this line serving as a central theme of hope.
Verdict summary
The statement accurately reflects Clinton's 1993 inaugural address.