Clinton had the gift of a booming economy, but any thought of making progress on major generational challenges, like Medicare and Social Security, were sidetracked by the Monica Lewsinsky scandal and the impeachment saga.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Some consumers may be wary of purchasing gift cards due to the shaky economy.

FORBES: Retail

But that gift is not translated into a better economy.

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But for the moment the economy is Mr Clinton's best gift to Mr Gore: a record that is beyond attack by any other candidate.

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The slow grind of this rough economy has caused many friends and families to reset gift-giving practices.

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