I seem to recall also coming away from the Clinton era with this notion that he was not all that bad a president. Yes, he got some on the side and yes he lied to Congress about it, but really what was it Congress' business? Or the nation's, for that matter? Wouldn't you want to instinctively lie if you were questioned on deeds of misconduct? And, as Magrus said, if that's the worst thing he did during his presidency, that is hardly worthy of being a stain on his career like the one on that blue dress (couldn't resist).
As far as great presidents, I go with FDR: I meant to post in Tony's thread about leaders I respected, but FDR was one of them. His programs during the Depression led to the revitalization of the U.S. economy, provided countless jobs as well as creating things that could benefit all (like the highway system and some dams). Also, despite his leaning towards supporting the Allies in WWII, he quite deftly kept the U.S. out of the war as it was the prevailing opinion at the time. To serve the needs of his people before his own desires is a mark of integrity. Then he went on to be a strong war-time president. Also, before the amendment limiting the term of the presidency, he was the only president to ever be elected four times; that's supposed to be a true mark of how beloved he was by the people. If the term hadn't been limited to just two 4-year terms, how many presidents since FDR could have garnered the love of the people in such a way?
After FDR, I don't really think of any great U.S. presidents. Worst? Well... that list is lengthy and already been pretty much spelled out by others (particularly fable's list of inequity).
