WASHINGTON — Hillary Clinton defended American political dynasties — including her own — arguing some families may just have a “predisposition” to become presidents.
In an interview published Tuesday with Der Spiegel, Clinton batted down the notion that a succession of Bushes and Clintons in the White House would turn American politics into a monarchy.
“We had two Roosevelts,” the former secretary of state told the German publication. “We had two Adams. It may be that certain families just have a sense of commitment or even a predisposition to want to be in politics.”
Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd president, was merely a cousin of 26th President Theodore Roosevelt. John Quincy Adams was the son of John Adams, but four non-related presidents and a generation came in between.
The former first lady has not said whether she’d again seek the presidency and follow in her husband’s footsteps. Potentially, she could face Republican and former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who has expressed interest in the job.
If either were to win in 2016, the White House would be occupied by a Bush or a Clinton for the fourth time in five presidencies.
Traveling on her book tour for “Hard Choices,” Clinton pointed out that she didn’t win the White House in 2008 despite her name.
“I lost to somebody named Barack Obama, so I don’t think there is any guarantee in American politics,” Clinton offered as evidence. “My last name did not help me in the end. Our system is open to everyone. It is not a monarchy in which I wake up in the morning and abdicate in favor of my son.”
As to whether she’d like to see daughter Chelsea enter politics, Clinton demurred: “It is really up to her.”