My Old Friend Bill Clinton Just Called

Bill Clinton, the 42nd President of the United States, just took time out of his busy schedule to call me at home and remind me of all the things his wife has done for the rural folk "in Arkansas and New York." He wanted me to consider these things as I cast my ballot in the May 20 Oregon primary.

I'm honored by this attention but not really surprised. Bill and I go way back. Here he is (below) pulling a quarter out of my ear 16 years ago on a sunny spring day in Eugene.



Unfortunately for the former prez, this personal touch is too late. My ballot's already in the mail.

(And I must say, he's not really much of a listener. I couldn't get a word in edgewise. He just kept prattling on until he finished what he had to say, then he hung up).