Meaning: The quote "Clinton's pardoning of Marc Rich was off-the-wall" by Morley Safer, a well-known journalist, refers to a controversial decision made by then-President Bill Clinton during his last hours in office. In 2001, Clinton issued a pardon to Marc Rich, a wealthy and influential commodities trader who had been indicted on a long list of charges, including tax evasion, wire fraud, and trading with Iran during the hostage crisis. This pardon sparked widespread criticism and speculation about the motives behind it, leading many to question the ethical and legal implications of the decision.

Marc Rich was a highly successful and powerful figure in the world of commodities trading. He had amassed a considerable fortune through his business dealings, but his success was overshadowed by the legal troubles that eventually led to his indictment. Rich had been living abroad for years, evading arrest and prosecution in the United States. Despite his fugitive status, he continued to conduct business and maintain connections with influential individuals and governments around the world.

The decision to pardon Marc Rich raised significant concerns due to the perceived lack of transparency and potential conflicts of interest. Critics argued that Rich's ex-wife, Denise Rich, who had donated large sums of money to the Democratic Party and the Clinton Presidential Library, may have influenced the pardon. Additionally, questions were raised about the timing of the pardon, as it occurred during the final hours of Clinton's presidency, leaving little opportunity for public scrutiny or debate.

Morley Safer's characterization of the pardon as "off-the-wall" reflects the widespread disbelief and outrage that followed the announcement. The phrase suggests that the decision was unexpected, unconventional, and perhaps even irrational. Safer's perspective as a journalist with a keen sense of public perception underscores the magnitude of the controversy surrounding the pardon and its impact on public trust in political institutions.

The pardon of Marc Rich sparked intense debate about the limits of presidential authority, the influence of wealthy individuals in politics, and the potential for corruption within the highest levels of government. It also raised questions about the ethical considerations that should guide the use of the presidential pardon power. The episode served as a cautionary tale about the potential for abuse of executive authority and the need for accountability and transparency in the exercise of such powers.

In conclusion, Morley Safer's quote encapsulates the broader public sentiment regarding the controversial pardon of Marc Rich by President Bill Clinton. The decision to grant a pardon to a fugitive billionaire with significant legal troubles, amidst questions of political influence and timing, sparked widespread criticism and debate. The episode serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between power, privilege, and accountability in the realm of politics and governance.