Hillary Clinton unveils plans to become first female US president

Published on Sunday 21 January 2007 00:13

HILLARY Rodham Clinton embarked on a widely anticipated campaign for the White House yesterday, a former first lady intent on becoming the first female American president. "I'm in and I'm in to win," she said on her website.

"You know after six years of George Bush it is time to renew the promise of America," Clinton said in a videotaped message in which she invited voters to begin a dialogue with her on the major issues - health care, social security, Medicare and the war in Iraq.

"I'm not just starting a campaign, though, I'm beginning a conversation with you, with America," she said. "Let's talk. Let's chat. The conversation in Washington has been just a little one-sided lately, don't you think?"

Clinton, who was re-elected to a second term last November, said she will spend the next two years "doing everything in my power to limit the damage George W Bush can do. But only a new president will be able to undo Bush's mistakes and restore our hope and optimism."

In a defiant statement - and a nod to questions about her electability - Clinton said: "I have never been afraid to stand up for what I believe in or to face down the Republican machine. After nearly $70m spent against my campaigns in New York and two landslide wins, I can say I know how Washington Republicans think, how they operate and how to beat them."

With millions in the bank, a vast network of supporters and top status in nearly every poll of Democratic contenders, Clinton is undertaking the most viable effort by a female candidate to capture the White House. Her creation of a presidential exploratory committee allows her to raise money for the campaign. She has already lined up campaign staff.

She is the first presidential spouse to pursue the office. Her husband Bill served two terms in the White House from 1993 to 2001.

Clinton's announcement was the latest step in a remarkable political and personal journey for the 59-year-old - from Arkansas lawyer to first lady to New York senator to front-runner for the Democratic nomination.

But some have criticised her for being overly cautious and calculating.