truth B told

xena_warrior88

The link for the article isn’t working on my computer, so I'm kind of stabbing in the dark here, but I think the answer to all of your questions is; depends on the first lady.

I think of Eleanor Roosevelt and Edith Wilson (who practically ran the country after her husband had a stroke) and I say, "Hey, first ladies can be pretty darn useful” But, then I look at Hillary and I can't help but think, "What a friken pain"

I think there are some guide lines that should be followed. 1) We do not elect a couple, we a elect one person, so the presidents spouse should not be too actively involved in the shaping of policy 2) The president's spouse can be opinionated and even vocal, but should not be antagonistic 3) If the presidents spouse has a more introspective disposition, that is okay, they should not be obligated to be to active. 4) If the first spouse has practical knowledge on civil or political issues then they can address them, if they do not, they should not assume that being married to the president somehow makes their opinion in these areas valid. In this case it is best if the president’s spouse is active in social programs (head start, voter awareness, food drives, etc…) more than being involved in the pushing of legislature or a political agenda. 5) The President spouse does not have to live in the shadow of his/her significant other, he/she can have his/hers own life and own agenda, but it is probably best if a first spouse never publicly disagrees with the president.

The first spouse is the closest thing we have to a symbolic monarch. The position wields no real authority, but it does have much potential for influence, so I think it best that the first spouse have the qualities of a good leader (integrity, passion, knowledge, adaptability, etc...)

I have been using the term "first spouse" instead of "first lady" on the chance that we may some day have a female president, which would make the first American first fellow. This was the case in England for years under Margaret Thatcher. What do you think it would be to have your wife be the president?
 

I think the first lady is a huge part of the Presidential canidate. I see it simmillar to the faith of the president. Faith/Partner is going to guide you in some if not all of your decisions. Sure the President still must make up his own mind, but the first lady may have more influence than anyone else. I see the first lady as part of the package deal, just like the Vice President is. Hopefully that makes sense.

.phil