Bill Clinton now basks in a period of national prosperity enjoyed by only two or three American presidents in this century. The country is at peace. Inflation is at a 32-year low. A healthy economy is producing a record number of jobs.
Crime rates are at historic lows.
But with this golden age comes a set of unique challenges for the occupant of the Oval Office. As President Clinton spends long hours this week crafting his State of the Union address, scholars say that he faces a test of political character. He must consider how to seize this moment in history and address developing national problems that won't become critical until he has left office. Mr. Clinton suggests that an aggressive agenda is in the offing to head off long-term concerns. But many historians and political analysts say his incremental approach to policy making and leadership is inadequate to stem the social and economic hardships to come.