Today in history, a significant event unfolded on February 12, 1999, when President Bill Clinton’s impeachment trial concluded with his acquittal. After a five-week trial, the Senate fell short of the two-thirds majority vote required to convict on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice. This momentous process was widely publicized and discussed, marking a pivotal chapter in American political history.

In a dramatic turn of events, Ken Starr stumbled upon Clinton’s sexual indiscretions while investigating an unrelated matter. It was revealed that Clinton had engaged in sexual acts with White House intern Monica Lewinsky, which he later denied during a civil sexual harassment suit from another woman. Starr compiled a report and forwarded it to the House of Representatives.

Based on the Starr Report, an unexpected turn of events occurred on December 19, 1998, when the House voted to impeach Clinton on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice. The trial commenced in the Senate on January 7, 1999. Five weeks later, on February 12, the Senate voted to acquit Clinton, a decision that surprised many and added a dramatic twist to the proceedings.

The trial was highly publicized, with constant media attention. All of the graphic details were aired and printed. The 453-page Starr Report was released to the public online, and 20 million people accessed it. Public opinion on Clinton’s impeachment was deeply divided, underscoring the influence of the masses. Impeachment supporters believed that perjury and obstruction, regardless of context, demonstrated untrustworthiness. On the other hand, Clinton’s defenders argued that while his actions were morally questionable, they did not constitute ‘high crimes’ and that his public and private affairs should be kept separate.

Clinton was the second president in US history to face an impeachment trial after Andrew Johnson in 1868. Lewinsky faced severe public backlash and harassment. She became a speaker and advocate against cyberbullying and abuses of power.