Speaking of embedded giving, what better way to describe the intersection between Bill Clintons charitable endeavors and Hillarys campaign for president?
The Times today traces a bit of the network overlap, but the real story lies in the reputation effect of Bill Clinton’s conveniently timed mass media push for social entrepreneurship. C’mon, we’re all adults here. Just as a commercial business strategically builds builds trust by leveraging the goodwill of the charities it supports, Bill Clinton is just the latest in a long tradition of politicians seeking to win over voters by aligning themselves with good works. Nonsense like this . . . As the presidential campaign got under way, foundation officials began working to ensure that none of their enterprises would have political repercussions for Mrs. Clinton. is just another example of why it’s important to distinguish between law and the rhetoric of design. Done well–and Bill Clinton is a master of PR–charity can be used for political ends with nary a complaint, but the key phrase here is “done well.” It’s going to work only if you know what you are doing and how it will look. Howeve
