Clinton–Lewinsky scandal

Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky on February 28, 1997 A3e06420664168d9466c84c3e31ccc2f

Monica lewinsky

Political scandal involving U.S. President Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky

The Clinton–Lewinsky scandal was a political scandal involving President Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky, a White House intern, which came to light in 1998. The scandal led to the impeachment of President Clinton by the House of Representatives and subsequent acquittal by the Senate.

Background

Bill Clinton was the 42nd President of the United States, serving from 1993 to 2001. Monica Lewinsky was a 22-year-old intern at the White House in 1995 and 1996. The relationship between Clinton and Lewinsky began in November 1995 and continued sporadically until March 1997.

Discovery and Investigation

The affair came to public attention in January 1998, when Linda Tripp, a former White House staffer, provided recordings of conversations with Lewinsky to Kenneth Starr, the Independent Counsel. Starr was already investigating Clinton for other matters, including the Whitewater controversy and the Paula Jones lawsuit.

Impeachment

The House of Representatives impeached President Clinton on December 19, 1998, on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice. The charges stemmed from Clinton's sworn testimony denying the affair and his efforts to conceal it. The Senate trial began in January 1999, and on February 12, 1999, Clinton was acquitted on both charges.

Aftermath

The scandal had significant political and personal repercussions. Clinton's approval ratings remained high despite the scandal, but it affected his legacy and the careers of those involved. Lewinsky faced intense public scrutiny and later became an advocate against cyberbullying.

Related Pages

• Bill Clinton
• Monica Lewinsky
• Linda Tripp
• Kenneth Starr
• Whitewater controversy
• Paula Jones
• Impeachment of Bill Clinton