Ellie Kamazani
November 27, 2008
Pd. 4
Oral Argument
In January to September of 1998, a scandal involving former President Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky absorbed the majority of the media's time and energy. The investigation was the massive distraction for the President, Congress, and citizens; vast amounts of public attention were devoted to the Lewinsky affair. Presidents, constantly reminded of their power and prestigious rank, can become exasperated in being unable to control the news media. Clinton undoubtedly spent a large fraction of his time and mental energy dealing with the scandal and investigation. In these months of turmoil, Clinton was being bombarded with demands of explanations and clarifications. At first denying the sexual relationship between himself and Lewinsky, Clinton eventually confessed to the "improper relationship" and previous denials. Of the two speeches, the Original Draft of Clinton's Apology is more effective in persuading the audience through it's less ambiguous, direct, and respectful approach.
English: Monica Lewinsky, from her government ID p...
English: Official White House photo of President B...
US President Bill Clinton (center with hand up), f...The first speech is true to itself from beginning to end because it sets out to deliver one specific message consistently. In the speech he first admits to all of his wrongdoings and regrets, then apologizes. He states to have failed his own "religious faith and values," and to have "fallen short" of what should be expected of a president. He bluntly adds "I have let too many people down." By remaining direct and thorough throughout the speech, it is evident that he is only trying to get one point across, that he is sorry, and that he is sincere in his apologies. He frankly states what he has done wrong, "I never should have has any sexual contact with Monica Lewinsky, but I didâ¦What I did was wrong-and there is no excuse for it." giving a straight forward explanation. He then shifts to...