JeremyC,

Had both Ms. Clinton and Mr. Gore exhibited the character to denounce Mr. Clinton emphatically for his actions then they would have demonstrated the character I think a president needs to lead by example. The President of the United States must be above reproach, someone special for citizens to admire and emulate, in my judgment.

You said it succinctly: "a symbol of something larger than the individual currently in the position." People of character and integrity put the public good above personal gain and pain. Had either person demonstrated that type of character at that difficult time and put the welfare of the country first, then either would have gained my confidence and most likely my vote. Instead, Gore shied away from the issue while Ms. Clinton became a vast right-wing conspiracy theorist. Therefore, neither deserves to hold high office based on my view of what a president should be to all people at all times.