What Matters to Voters    

   Funny how the tables turn.

   Twenty years ago, some Americans wanted President Clinton impeached due to his behavior in the people's house, and complaints by various women over the years. He was impeached by the House, for lying, not behavior.

   His defenders, including political women, argued that his personal behavior was none of our business, so long as he did his job. (Would blackmail have been our concern?) 

   Did he do his job? In 1998, the Dow Jones industrial average rose by 16 percent. Unemployment fell to a 28-year low. Dems gained seats in Congress. (Presidents get credit or blame, regardless.) 

   With the post-Cold War economy humming, Clinton went out with a 66 percent approval rating.

   Today, the same party that poo-pooed Clinton's behavior is getting on President Trump about his womanizing past. Fifty-nine congressional women are calling for impeachment. Two thirds of the Senate is required for removal from office.  

   Trump's approval rating remains stuck at 37 percent, which is still twice as good as Congress overall. Despite his executive accomplishments and self promotions, he hasn't won people over. 

   Is he doing his job? Last quarter's annual growth rate was the highest in three years. The core inflation rate is 1.7 percent. 

   The 4.1 percent unemployment rate is down (about 800,000 workers) since January. The DJIA is up 24 percent since he took office, one of the best performances ever. (Presidents get credit or blame, regardless.) 

   And tax cuts should make the numbers even better.

   The Clinton team's old wisecrack - It's the economy, stupid - still applies.

   If the choice is between the economy or behavior, most people vote for their finances. No surprise.   

                                       Bret Stephens, NYT columnist 
      Jimmy