Laura Philip Bennett, Bennett & Company
My choice would be to refine to her image. I would present her exactly as she is and let the public get to know her better, so there are no more misconceptions. I think she's a wonderful role model. The more the public knows about her, the better. By presenting partial bits of information, which is what I believe is currently happening, we do her - and our country - a major disservice. I'd like to see more of her opinions. I don't think she's offering them, mostly because the response has often been a slap in the face.
Paul Jensen, Kratz & Company
Ironically, the more Hillary's husband tarnishes his own image, the better the First Lady's reputation seems to get. Though she publicly dissed the Tammy Wynette role several years ago, Hillary is now admired for 'standing by her man' and adding some modicum of respectability to the First Couple. If Hillary is serious about leaving behind a legacy and not a trail of pity, however, she could champion a single public issue independent of the President's activities, such as Barbara Bush did with literacy or Rosalyn Carter with mental health.
Tom Amberg, Cushman/Amberg Communications
Hillary Clinton has been riding a roller coaster of public opinion. Some love her, some hate her, and her polls have gone up and down throughout her career as First Lady. Now, in the aftermath of the Clinton sex scandal, she is both admired and pitied. To capitalize on the built-in goodwill and to assist her in helping the administration, I would counsel her to concentrate on non-controversial human need issues and refrain from policy debate or partisanship.
Angie Jefferey, Jeffrey Communications & TRAKWare
Actually, Hillary's image is better now than it has been. While few understand why she's standing behind her man, the fact is that by taking the high road she's distancing herself from the fallout. She's also showing a 'grace under pressure' that serves her well. I'd advise her to keep seeking high-profile speaking engagements in controlled environments, to be visible at natural disasters and to keep strong-arming Democrats behind the scenes.
Despite the mess he's created for the nation, her husband Bill IS the President. But in two years, she should move on!
