The Neoliberal Covenant

Clinton as the first Democrat elected after Reagan presents the possibility of a return to progressive liberalism. This chapter studies his language and ultimately concludes that Clinton continues the heterodox. Often Clinton appeals to both neoliberals and progressive liberals, placing himself in a rhetorical position in which it is unclear what he believes. In contrast to Clinton’s opacity, Bush Jr. is a clear neoliberal. Bush Jr.’s language differentiates himself from his father, as he moves away from the “compassionate conservatism” his father embraced. This chapter will explore whether Bush Jr.’s neoliberal assertion fully displaces the apparent heterodox.