Conservatism is a widespread political belief that advocates for following traditions in various spheres. Even though this suggestion is not negative, it can face criticism for preventing innovation and development. That is why many political leaders do not follow this approach. In particular, specific examples demonstrate how the Clinton and Obama administrations challenged the rise of conservatism and advocated for the continuation of the so-called conservative triumph.
On the one hand, it is necessary to explain how the presidents opposed the rise of conservatism. Clinton focused on economic affairs and made an effort to improve traditional trade barriers between the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The president signed the North American Free Trade Act (NAFTA) into law (The American Yamp Reader, n.d.b). In turn, Obama addressed social issues and challenged conservatism in the sphere of racial equality. His visit to Selma proved that the president actively opposed any racial segregation that traditionally existed in the past (Washington Post, 2016). On the other hand, additional examples reveal how the administrations can be seen as the continuation of the conservative triumph. Thus, Clinton supported the Commodity Futures Modernization Act of 2000 because this legislation piece brought innovation and development to the derivative markets (The American Yamp Reader, n.d.b). Obama kept focusing on racial affairs, and his progressive suggestions referred to the active empowerment of African Americans (The American Yamp Reader, n.d.a). These examples reveal how the different administrations challenged conservatism in their activity.
In conclusion, the paper has demonstrated how the Clinton and Obama administrations approached conservatism. Firstly, the presidents made specific steps to abandon some traditions that affected the United States negatively. Secondly, these administrations did their best to bring innovation and progress to the country. That is why Clinton signed specific bills into laws while Obama actively advocated for justice and equality in all life spheres.
References
The American Yamp Reader. (n.d.a). Barack Obama, Howard University commencement address (2016).
The American Yamp Reader. (n.d.b). Bill Clinton on free trade and financial deregulation (1993-2000).
Washington Post. (2016). How Obama’s visit to Selma, 50 years later, marked America’s progress.