Clinton finally visits Nebraska, argues against isolationism

President Clinton at the University of Nebraska in Kearney, Nebraska

KEARNEY, Nebraska (AP) -- President Clinton appealed Friday for the United States to maintain actively engaged with the rest of the world, saying Americans cannot reject globalization and expect to live in peace. "Local conflicts can become worldwide headaches if we allow them to fester," he said.

Clinton delivered the first in a series of farewell speech, closing out his presidency. His audience was 6,000 people at the University of Nebraska and the visit was his first visit to Nebraska of his presidency. He has now visited all 50 states.

In the speech, Clinton laid out the role he hopes the United States will play on the global stage after he leaves office.

"There is no longer a clear, bright line dividing America's domestic concerns and America's foreign policy concerns," Clinton said. "Every American who wants to be a good citizen, who wants to vote in every election, should know more about the rest of the world and have a clearer idea about what we're supposed to be doing out there."

He borrowed the words of Nebraska's own William Jennings Bryan, saying the United States' destiny to be a leader in the world "is not a choice, it is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved." He called for his successor to continue efforts to unify Europe, saying that "takes a big burden off America" in international peacekeeping.

He urged continued overtures to Russia and China, because the direction those countries take will have a direct impact on U.S. defense budget decisions and, ultimately, the lives of young Americans.

Clinton also said he hopes the United States will pay its long-withheld dues to the United Nations and hold up its own racial and ethnic diversity as an example for strife-torn nations to follow.

"I'll be gone in a few weeks. America will have a new president and a new Congress. You ought to support them if they want to do these things," Clinton said. "America cannot lead if we walk away from our friends and neighbors."

Afterward, Clinton was helping unveil a plaque and touring the Great Platte River Road Archway monument. He was traveling on to Omaha for a Nebraska Democratic Party fundraiser before returning to Washington.

Clinton flew in early, accompanied by Nebraska's Democratic Sen. Bob Kerrey and former Rep. Peter Hoagland. He was met outside a faded red hangar at the Kearney Municipal Airport by Gov. Mike Johanns, Lt. Gov. David Maurtstad and about 30 well-wishers.

Local residents didn't seem to mind that Nebraska is the last of the 50 states to be visited by the president during his eight years in office. They lined the streets of his motorcade route to catch a glimpse of Clinton; Some recorded the moment with video cameras while others waved poster-sized signs and small American flags.

"Saving the Best for Last," one sign read. But there were other sentiments too: "Ashamed of Bill," "Clinton Rapist," "Clinton 2004" and "Proud Supporter of 'The Man'."

Inside the arena, the crowd sat silently waiting while Clinton hurriedly donned an academic robe and took the stage with local dignitaries. They applauded politely when Clinton accepted an honorary doctorate of humane letters from Chancellor Gladys Johnston, his black, gold and white sash askew across his shoulders.

The White House billed the speech as a precursor to Clinton's upcoming three-day visit to Ireland, Northern Ireland and England. He departs Monday.

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