Putting the politics aside for a moment, let’s talk about Hillary Clinton. She is an apparent role model for girls across the nation, but why? I understand the appeal of a female president based on the sexist history of America, but why did we choose Hillary? The commander in chief of the United States is the most powerful and respected position in the world, and for a woman to hold that would speak volumes; I get that. I agree with the idea that having an awesome female president would be great—someone tough who gets the job done. What I don’t agree with is that Hillary Clinton would be the woman for the job.

Like I mentioned, we’re putting politics aside. Let’s look at the character of Hillary Clinton. Is she strong-willed and independent? Some may say she is, looking at her past accomplishments. Helping to provide low cost health care to children and families, fighting for women’s and LGBT rights, and so forth are all things she’s done that make her seemingly strong-willed. However, those are all political. On a more personal level, take a look at her relationship with Bill Clinton.

Hillary and Bill Clinton have been married since 1975, (how nice). Yea, that’s a long time, and quite frankly, too long. If Hillary is so independent and dedicated to women’s rights, then why does she let her husband walk all over her? Time and time again, rumors of Bill Clinton’s numerous affairs with multiple women have popped up, (Monica Lewinski, Gennifer Flowers, Elizabeth Ward Gracen, etc., etc.). And, interestingly enough, time and time again Hillary has swept it all under the rug. I don’t know about all of you ladies, but I don’t think that someone who let's their husband cheat on them all the time is a great representation of strength. Now, I don’t mean to say that a girl is weak if she goes back to someone who betrays them. Everyone’s situation is different, but that isn’t the point. Women should do whatever they want if it comes to that, and I personally respect whatever choice they end up making. But, do I think that someone who lets that happen year after year and doesn’t put an end to it would make a great leader of my country? No, I do not.

I would feel so much differently about Hillary if she had ended to their relationship years ago. It would be way cooler if she was a single candidate, rather using the appeal of a married candidate. It also speaks volumes if she didn't care so desperately about the bad publicity of a divorce, or her image in general. Girls shouldn’t look up to a woman who turns a blind eye to her husband’s extensive list of affairs. Girls should idolize women who know they deserve the best, and don’t settle. When you decide who you're going to vote for, put aside the politics for a second. What type of person do you want running our country? Someone who embodies all of the qualities of a successful leader-- like strength, independence and bravery? Or Hillary Clinton?