Role of first lady has changed over time

Hillary Clinton was one of the most politically active first ladies in history. She pushed for one of her husband’s main political goals – to bring health insurance to all Americans. But she faced strong opposition and the administration’s health reform effort failed in the end.

Another first lady who had political influence was Eleanor Roosevelt, wife of the 32^ndU.S. president, Franklin D. Roosevelt. She told the nation in 1933 that Americans should not expect their new first lady to be “a symbol of elegance. ” Instead, she said they would be getting a " plain, ordinary Mrs. Roosevelt.”

Eleanor Roosevelt said " the destiny of human rights is in the hands of all our citizens in all our communities."

During her service, Eleanor Roosevelt became the first first lady to hold her own press conferences. She also traveled the country visiting relief projects and examining work and living conditions. She campaigned for the rights of the poor and minorities. But she also found time for her official White House entertaining duties.

Eksterowicz said he thinks the next most influential first lady in terms of policy was Rosalynn Carter, wife of the 39^th U.S. president, Jimmy Carter.

“This is a woman who sat in on cabinet meetings, Camp David negotiations, served as a presidential ambassador during a Latin American trip, lobbied and testified before Congress.”

This is the official White House portrait of First Lady Rosalynn Carter in the Vermeil Room, Feb. 18, 1977, Washington, D.C. (AP Photo/White House)

He noted that Carter expanded her role by creating a new position of chief of staff and integrating her office with the White House office.

Some first ladies have also had influence in a less public way. One was Nancy Reagan, wife of the 40^th U.S. president, Ronald Reagan. Nancy had a “powerful” impact from behind the scenes, according to Eksterowicz.

“I would say a very, very strong, influential behind-the-scenes partner, particularly with respect to foreign affairs and establishing relationships with the Russians.”

Former U.S. President Ronald Reagan fell at his Los Angeles home January 12, 2001 and was taken to a hospital, where he will have surgery for a hip fracture, his spokeswoman said.

Nancy Reagan was also known to give her husband advice on his public image and which people to choose for top staff positions.

Bill Clinton’s role could also raise the issue of whether presidential spouses should be paid. Currently they receive no salary. Eksterowicz said the case in favor of pay would be stronger if Bill Clinton was given specific tasks from the president.

He also noted that Hillary and Bill Clinton both have strong, activist personalities. He said there is a very real possibility that Bill Clinton could overshadow his wife in certain actions.

Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton and former President Bill Clinton arrive for a rally at McGonigle Hall at Temple University in Philadelphia, July 29, 2016. (AP)

Professor Litchman agrees. “Whether he (Clinton) can keep himself under control is the bigger and much more interesting question.”