It is tempting to characterize the 2008 race as a repeat of 1984. Like Mondale, Hillary was well known nationally coming into the race. However, Obama, like Hart, was a relative newcomer to national politics. The differences between 1984 and 2008, though, are significant. Mondale was Vice-President in an administration that was wildly unpopular. In contrast, Hillary was first lady during the Clinton years which, in many ways, was a very successful presidency. She has also been a surprisingly effective senator from New York. Therefore, the Mondale/Hillary comparison -- which may be intended by Hart as a subtle dig -- is inapt.