Talks of impeachment are now, at the least, stalled, and Independent Prosecutor Kenneth Starr faces an uphill battle as he vows to pursue his investigation of the president's alleged criminal coverup. Wright's decision, while providing no certainty that this case is fully behind the president, might have swayed the political pendulum back toward normality.
Jones, a former Arkansas state worker, initially brought charges against Clinton in May 1994. She filed a civil suit claiming that he made unwanted sexual advances in May 1991, when Clinton was governor of Arkansas. Four years later, Wright found the alleged incident as "boorish and offensive" at worst but lacking all proof of "tangible job detriment" or "forcible compulsion" amid a hostile work environment, as required by law. She continued to say that the pending suit "falls far short" of requiring a jury trial. Even though many expected Wright to yield to the enormous expectations of this sensational case, her decision was clearly warranted by the law and the facts. Wright's opinion exemplified a full and fair employment of the legal process that this nation was founded upon.
By no means does this decision defame Jones or belittle cases of sexual harassment - much to the contrary. In a time that places much attention upon sexual misconduct, this decision stands out as important and honest. Only cases meeting rigorous standards should be granted a trial. Otherwise, the legal process becomes a mockery of itself, and all cases are cheapened by the admission of some. Judge Wright should be commended for not bowing to Washington's powerful political antics or the mass media's consistent pressures. As defined by the letter of the law and articulated by Wright, the "alleged conduct does not constitute sexual assault."
President Clinton reportedly felt vindicated and celebrated with a cigar and a drum. While dismissed, this case still holds far-reaching repercussions - four years have been spent pursuing legal games. The names of Bill Clinton and Paula Jones will forever be linked in scandal.
But this could mark an up-turn for Clinton's plagued second term. With Jones's anticipated appeal and Starr's continuing investigation, last week's ruling is not the end of Clinton's legal troubles. But it may be the beginning of the end. Perhaps upon return to Washington, Clinton can adopt standards of behavior and leadership that are not simply legal but also worthy of praise.