Ep 4. Clinton: The Comeback Kid

The Nineties season 1 episode 4 is titled "Clinton: The Comeback Kid." This episode focuses on the rise of President Bill Clinton in the political arena during the 1990s. The show starts by exploring Clinton's humble beginnings in Arkansas, and how he emerged as a political force to be reckoned with in the national scene.

The episode highlights some of Clinton's early political setbacks, including his loss in the 1980 Arkansas governor's race. However, it also delves into the factor that helped him rise, his natural charisma. Clinton was known for his ability to connect with people and put them at ease, which made him an effective politician at both the state and national levels.

The show then moves on to the 1992 presidential election, where Clinton was able to defeat incumbent George H.W. Bush. The episode explores how Clinton's campaign emphasized his relatable working-class background, and how he was able to connect with voters by playing the saxophone on The Arsenio Hall Show.

However, the show also doesn't shy away from some of Clinton's controversies during his presidency. It touches upon the Whitewater scandal, and how the media fixated on Clinton's personal life and extramarital affairs. It also touches on Clinton's impeachment, which came as a result of the Monica Lewinsky scandal.

Despite these scandals, the episode ultimately highlights Clinton's lasting legacy. It notes that he was the first Democrat to win two presidential elections since Franklin D. Roosevelt, and that he oversaw a period of economic growth and record low unemployment during his presidency. The episode also highlights his role in the Good Friday Agreement, which helped bring peace to Northern Ireland after decades of conflict.

Throughout the episode, the show features interviews with various political experts, journalists, and former Clinton administration officials. These interviews provide insights into Clinton's political strategy, as well as his personal characteristics that made him such a memorable politician.

Overall, "Clinton: The Comeback Kid" is an informative and engaging episode of The Nineties that offers insights into one of the most important political figures of the decade.