She has been abused and hated by the right wing ever since her husband ran for governor of Arkansas. Because she was a woman who dared to think, to have an education, to argue for her beliefs.
She spearheaded the failed health reform plan under President Clinton, which failed because insurance companies torpedoed it. She went to China and declared that “women’s rights are human rights”.
In 2000, a Republican candidate by the name of Rick Lazio tried to bully her, right there on stage, at their debate… And she had the perfect words, the perfect poise to answer his venom. And today, nobody but a few political junkies like myself even remember his name.
She spent her time in the Senate fighting many battles. But anyone examining her record can see she fought for improving the lives of children, reducing violence, strengthening families.
She ran for president… And found her voice as a trumpet for all those disadvantaged, belittled, underestimated… She did not win then, but her rival respected her voice and her judgment enough to make her his Secretary of State.
Today, there is no one alive who has done more for the cause of women’s rights in this country. It is no accident she has been so hated and reviled by the right. Because she continues to be a pillar of strength in the face of hatred, because she continues to proudly and unapologetically highlight women’s issues. Even as the Republicans wage their war on women and talk about “legitimate rape”.
Trump and his ilk think she is an easy target. But they do not know her strength and her passion. Let them think what they want. I will be celebrating as the entire bigoted and sexist edifice that is the GOP of today wakes up after election day 2016 to find a Madame President-elect, a commander in chief and a voice in the White House that will surely be out of their worst nightmares. The GOP deserves that. And the country deserves a president of her accomplishment and humanity, of her brilliance and strength.