Chelsea Clinton Talks Having Kids, Running for Office

Former U.S. President's daughter opens up about her future plans in Vogue magazine

By Alyssa Toomey Aug 15, 2012 7:29 PMTags
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Chelsea Clinton is changing her political tune.

The journalist, philanthropist and scholar has never been keen on a career in politics, but in a revealing interview with Vogue magazine for their September issue, former U.S. President Bill Clinton's daughter explains that her mother Hillary's political presence has changed her outlook.

"Before my mom's campaign, I would have said no. Not because it was something I had thought a lot about but because people have been asking me that my whole life," the 32-year-old Clinton reveals. "I believe that there are many ways for each of us to play our part. For a very long time that's what my mom did. And then she went into elected public life. Her life is a testament to the principle that there are many ways to serve."

Chelsea also notes that she has voted in every election since turning 18, and insists that strong political leaders are the key to a better world.

"I certainly believe that part of helping to build a better world is ensuring that we have political leaders who are committed to that premise," Clinton asserts. "So if there were to be a point where it was something I felt called to do and I didn't think there was someone who was sufficiently committed to building a healthier, more just, more equitable, more productive world? Then that would be a question I'd have to ask and answer."

But while the world may want Chelsea's political opinion, mom Hillary is also concerned with Chelsea's intentions to start a family.

"It's certainly something that Marc [Mezvinsky] and I talk a lot about," she says in regards to having children. "I always knew I was the center of my parents' lives when I was growing up. And I am determined that our children feel the same way. Marc and I are both working really hard right now, but I think in a couple of years, hopefully...literally, God willing. And I hope my mom can wait that long."

But no matter what future path Chelsea chooses for her life, this sharp woman is now fully aware that the world will be watching.

"Either it was something I could continue to ignore or it was something I could try to use to highlight causes that I really cared about," she says in reference to the fame frenzy after her wedding to Marc Mezvinsky. "Historically I deliberately tried to lead a private life in the public eye. And now I am trying to lead a purposefully public life."

And she's certainly ready for the prying public eye, "Having thick skin is an important quality for anyone who wants to do something in the world, and thankfully that's something I had to develop early on."

Spoken like a true political and Hollywood pro.

The September issue of Vogue will be available nationwide Aug. 21.