What Happened

1. The 2016 Election: A Perfect Storm of Challenges

We faced a perfect storm.

Unprecedented obstacles. Hillary Clinton's 2016 presidential campaign faced a unique set of challenges:

• FBI Director James Comey's controversial actions
• Russian interference in the election
• Widespread media focus on email controversy
• Persistent sexism and misogyny in politics
• An unconventional opponent in Donald Trump

These factors combined to create a highly unusual and difficult campaign environment, ultimately contributing to Clinton's unexpected loss despite winning the popular vote by nearly 3 million votes.

2. Emails Controversy: Overblown Issue with Lasting Impact

It was a dumb mistake. But an even dumber "scandal."

Disproportionate focus. The controversy over Clinton's use of a private email server while Secretary of State dominated media coverage:

• Initially intended for convenience, not to hide information
• No laws or regulations prohibiting use of personal email at the time
• FBI investigation found no intentional mishandling of classified information
• Media coverage vastly outweighed significance of the issue
• Constant focus on emails overshadowed policy discussions and other important campaign issues

The email controversy, while acknowledged as a mistake by Clinton, became a relentless distraction that shaped public perception and hindered the campaign's ability to focus on substantive policy discussions.

3. Russian Interference: A Sophisticated Attack on Democracy

We had crossed a line. This wasn't the normal rough-and-tumble of politics. This was—there's no other word for it—war.

Multifaceted assault. Russian interference in the 2016 election was complex and far-reaching:

• Hacking of DNC and Clinton campaign emails
• Coordinated release of stolen information through WikiLeaks
• Sophisticated social media disinformation campaign
• Attempts to infiltrate state voting systems
• Possible collusion with Trump campaign associates

The scale and sophistication of Russian efforts to influence the election represented an unprecedented attack on American democracy, with lasting implications for future elections and national security.

4. Media's Role: Unbalanced Coverage and False Equivalencies

The press acted like it was the only story that mattered.

Skewed priorities. Media coverage of the 2016 election was heavily criticized for its imbalance and focus on sensationalism:

• Disproportionate attention to Clinton's emails compared to other issues
• False equivalencies between Clinton's and Trump's controversies
• Lack of substantive policy coverage
• Amplification of Russian-sourced disinformation
• Failure to adequately investigate Trump's background and conflicts of interest

The media's approach to covering the election contributed to a distorted public perception of the candidates and their platforms, ultimately influencing the outcome of the race.

5. Sexism and Misogyny: Persistent Barriers in Politics

If we're too tough, we're unlikable. If we're too soft, we're not cut out for the big leagues.

Double standards. Clinton's campaign highlighted ongoing challenges faced by women in politics:

• Scrutiny of appearance, voice, and demeanor
• Expectations to be both tough and likable
• Accusations of being "shrill" or "emotional"
• Gendered attacks from opponents and media
• Struggle to be seen as both qualified and relatable

These persistent biases and double standards created additional hurdles for Clinton's historic candidacy, reflecting broader societal challenges for women in leadership roles.

6. Policy Priorities: Ambitious Plans Overshadowed by Controversy

I loved diving into the details of governing, but in the homestretch of the campaign, it was hard to focus on anything past Election Day.

Substantive agenda. Clinton's campaign developed detailed policy proposals that often received little attention:

• Infrastructure investment to create jobs
• Affordable healthcare and prescription drugs
• College affordability and student debt relief
• Climate change and clean energy initiatives
• Criminal justice reform
• Comprehensive immigration reform

Despite the campaign's efforts to focus on policy, media coverage and public attention were frequently diverted to controversies and personal attacks, limiting substantive debate on important issues.

7. Personal Resilience: Overcoming Setbacks and Moving Forward

I felt like Ray Donovan, President Reagan's Secretary of Labor, who, after being acquitted of fraud charges, asked, "Which office do I go to to get my reputation back?"

Unwavering determination. Throughout her career and the 2016 campaign, Clinton demonstrated resilience in the face of numerous challenges:

• Weathering decades of political attacks and investigations
• Bouncing back from her 2008 primary loss to Barack Obama
• Maintaining composure during intense public scrutiny
• Continuing to advocate for her beliefs despite setbacks
• Finding ways to connect with voters despite media narratives

Clinton's ability to persevere through adversity and continue fighting for her beliefs became a defining characteristic of her political career and 2016 campaign.

8. The Trump Factor: Unconventional Opponent, Unprecedented Campaign

Trump brilliantly tapped into all these feelings, especially with his slogan: Make America Great Again.

Disruptive force. Donald Trump's unconventional candidacy presented unique challenges:

• Appealing to populist anger and resentment
• Unprecedented use of social media, especially Twitter
• Willingness to break political norms and traditions
• Ability to dominate media coverage through controversy
• Tapping into underlying racial and economic anxieties

Trump's campaign style and messaging resonated with a significant portion of the electorate, particularly in key swing states, ultimately leading to his Electoral College victory despite losing the popular vote.

9. Lessons for Democracy: Strengthening Institutions and Combating Disinformation

Can anything be done to meet these twin threats and protect our democracy? The answer is yes, if we take this seriously.

Bolstering defenses. The 2016 election exposed vulnerabilities in American democracy that require urgent attention:

• Strengthening cybersecurity for election systems
• Combating foreign interference in elections
• Improving media literacy to combat disinformation
• Reforming campaign finance laws
• Addressing voter suppression and expanding access to voting
• Reinforcing norms and institutions that support democratic processes

Addressing these challenges is crucial for protecting the integrity of future elections and maintaining public trust in democratic institutions.

10. A Historic Candidacy: Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Future Generations

If you dig deep enough, through all the mud of politics, eventually you hit something hard and true: a foundation of fundamental values that unite us as Americans.

Enduring impact. Despite the loss, Clinton's candidacy marked a significant milestone:

• First woman nominated by a major party for U.S. President
• Inspired millions of women and girls to pursue leadership roles
• Highlighted ongoing challenges faced by women in politics
• Advanced discussions on gender equality and representation
• Paved the way for future female candidates at all levels of government

The historic nature of Clinton's candidacy and her popular vote victory demonstrated progress in breaking gender barriers in American politics, while also exposing persistent challenges that remain to be overcome.

Last updated: January 22, 2025