The stock market did well, not because of Bill Clinton, but in spite of him, entirely due to a republican house. The surpluses were also due to the republican house. The stock market falling in 2008 was also somewhat due to congress, the dems taking control in Jan. 2007. But the main reason for the fall had nothing to do with government. It was stupid investment decisions by a large group of companies on junk mortgages. Just a refresher on civics, the president cannot spend one penny or make a single law or policy unless the congress passes it first and then presenting it for signature.