Show creators Linda Bloodworth-Thomason and Harry Thomason were strong supporters of longtime friend and then-Democratic nominee for President of the United States, Bill Clinton and his wife Hillary. In one episode, Julia is stranded in the airport while attempting to attend Clinton's first inauguration. Additionally, Charlene mentions working for Clinton during his Arkansas governorship. Another Clinton-related joke was the introduction of the prissy character, Allison Sugarbaker, who makes it quite clear to the others that she attended Wellesley College, Hillary's alma mater. One episode revolves around Julia running for commissioner; she debates on television against a conservative candidate, to whom she eventually loses.