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Who's the Iron Fist, Who's the Velvet Glove?

On campaign trail, one Clinton takes the high road and the other ... doesn't

By Jonas Oransky, Newser Staff

Posted Jan 18, 2008 6:39 PM CST

(Newser) – As the former First Couple endeavors to become the future First Couple, they’re splitting up on the campaign trail so Hillary can stay positive while Bill plays the attack dog, CNN reports. Compare their responses to the Nevada caucuses lawsuit: Bill jumped down a reporter’s throat with scorn for special sites even as Hillary said “obviously” she wants to maximize voter participation.

The candidate’s been emphasizing her softer side even as her hubby’s gotten combative toward Barack Obama. It’s a noticeable change from the campaign’s earlier days, when the couple traveled together. The 42nd president clearly doesn’t think his absence is hurting, though: “The girl's doing pretty good isn't she?" he said last night.

[Images (3)]

[Videos (1)]

Former President Bill Clinton listens to a question from the audience about the sub-prime mortgage crisis during a campaign visit for his wife at a barbecue restaurant in Oakland, Calif., Wednesday,... (Associated Press)

Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y., greets employees at A&B Printing Co. as she campaigns in Las Vegas, Friday, Jan. 18, 2008. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola) (Associated Press)

Democratic Presidential hopeful, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y. campaigns with her husband, former President Bill Clinton, Friday, Jan. 4, 2008, at a rally in Nashua, N.H. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola) (Associated Press)

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Who's the Iron Fist, Who's the Velvet Glove?

On campaign trail, one Clinton takes the high road and the other ... doesn't

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[Videos (1)]

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Hillary Clinton • Bill Clinton • negative campaigning

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Attack dog no more, Bubba courts donors, rural men

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