The Historical Presidency: Clinton's Elections

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from the lecture on the historical presidency and elections during the Clinton administration.

Divided Government

A situation in which the political party that controls the White House does not also control Congress.

Electoral College

A body of electors established by the United States Constitution, which formally elects the President and Vice President.

New Democrat

A term used to describe the centrist political positions adopted by Bill Clinton and some other members of the Democratic Party in the 1990s.

Contract with America

A document released by the United States Republican Party during the 1994 congressional election campaign, outlining the party's agenda.

Triangulation

A political strategy utilized by Bill Clinton in which he positioned himself between the extremes of liberalism and conservatism.

Welfare Reform

Legislative changes aimed at reducing the welfare dependency of recipients by promoting work and personal responsibility.

1992 Election

The presidential election in which Bill Clinton defeated incumbent President George H.W. Bush and independent candidate Ross Perot.

Gennifer Flowers

A singer who alleged that she had a sexual relationship with Bill Clinton in the 1990s, which became a significant scandal during his presidential campaign.

Bush's Post-Gulf War Popularity

The high approval ratings for President George H.W. Bush following the successful military actions in the Gulf War, which peaked at 89% in March 1991.

Democratic Leadership Council (DLC)

An organization founded by centrist Democrats in the 1980s who sought to move the party closer to the political center.