In his forthcoming memoir, “Citizen,” former President Bill Clinton reflects on a 2018 interview with NBC’s Craig Melvin, during which he was questioned about his affair with Monica Lewinsky. Clinton acknowledges that the interview was “not my finest hour” and admits he was unprepared for the line of questioning that ensued.
The 2018 interview, intended to promote a novel co-authored by Clinton and James Patterson, shifted focus when Melvin inquired about the #MeToo movement and its relevance to Clinton’s past actions. Melvin asked whether Clinton would have resigned if the 1998 scandal had occurred in the current era. Clinton responded that he would not have resigned and criticized the impeachment inquiry that followed the scandal.
Melvin then referenced a column by Lewinsky in which she discussed how the #MeToo movement had altered her perspective on sexual harassment. He asked Clinton if this had changed his view. Clinton replied, “No, I felt terrible then.” When pressed about whether he had apologized to Lewinsky, Clinton stated that he had apologized to her and others he had wronged. However, he admitted that he had not spoken to her directly, saying, “I did say publicly on more than [one] occasion I was sorry.”
During the interview, Clinton grew defensive about his history on gender equality and claimed Melvin did not fully understand the Lewinsky case. He suggested Melvin had overlooked significant details and doubted his knowledge of the situation. Clinton further pointed out that Melvin was very young when the events occurred and likely hadn’t received an adequate briefing.
In “Citizen,” Clinton reflects on his reaction in the interview, admitting he was unprepared for an accusation of not apologizing to Lewinsky. He notes that it is wiser to direct anger toward issues affecting others rather than oneself.
The memoir, set for release on November 19, 2024, focuses on Bill Clinton’s life after leaving the Oval Office. It was timed for publication after the November 5 election, during which Clinton was a visible presence on the campaign trail.
Clinton’s reflections offer insight into his perspective on the 2018 interview and his handling of questions related to the Lewinsky scandal. The memoir provides a candid look at his experiences and thoughts.