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Bill Stumps With Hillary in Iowa

Steps into helpmate role as she struggles to regain momentum

By Dustin Lushing, Newser Staff

Posted Jul 3, 2007 2:00 PM CDT

(Newser) – Bill Clinton is trying out the role of doting husband on a campaign swing through Iowa this week. Their first joint appearances seem aimed to boost Hillary's likability and cut that 50% disapproval rating. Bill offers a warm introduction, affectionate hugs, and the claim that his wife is better qualified to be president than he was when he first ran for the job.

Until now Bill has been kept in reserve for heavy-duty fundraisers, but he's expected to make a similar swing through New Hampshire with Hillary later this month. The LA Times notes the risk that the charismatic ex-president will diminish his wife by comparison. A strategist for rival Obama explains: "I once said in 2000 about Al Gore, it's hard to shine when you're standing next to the sun."

[Images (3)]

[Videos (1)]

State Fairgrounds Monday, July 2, 2007 in Des Moines, Iowa. (AP Photo/M. Spencer Green) (Associated Press)

Former President Bill Clinton looks on as his wife Democratic presidential hopeful U.S. Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y., speaks during a rally, Monday, July 2, 2007, at the Iowa state fairgrounds... (Associated Press)

Former President Bill Clinton and his wife Democratic presidential hopeful U.S. Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y., during a rally, Monday, July 2, 2007, at the Iowa state fairgrounds in Des Moines,... (Associated Press)

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Bill Stumps With Hillary in Iowa