Editorial: Clinton-haters need a healthy dose of reality

But one political strategist has a harsh assessment of this view, telling the New York Times this week: "The Republicans who are fixated on this, these people need to get a life. I don't know what drug treatment they need. I don't know what psychotherapy they need. But the country's moved beyond this. What about free trade? Crime in the streets? Kosovo? There are other issues out there."

The preceding quote wasn't from Clinton loyalist James Carville. The person making this comment was Dave Carney, a longtime GOP strategist from New Hampshire. Other Republicans have joined the chorus as well, especially governors. New York Gov. George Pataki said Republicans should talk about moving on and focusing on the core beliefs of the party. Instead, Pataki said, the party resembles Yugoslavia, where "they're still fighting the battles of the 11th century."

Some Democratic strategists may relish Republicans in disarray. But this will not help the nation, which has seen Washington's obsession with Monica over the past year create gridlock in Congress. Meanwhile important issues such as health care, Social Security and campaign finance reform have gone ignored.

Republicans need to give up -- the trial's over. Clinton, although acquitted, certainly was humiliated. If Republicans truly want to win back the affection of the American people they should get back to work on important policy issues and stop whining and wondering why the American people rejected their tactics during the impeachment trial.

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