At one time, it was a very tense rivalry, the relationship between Bill and Hillary Clinton and President Barack Obama, but it has evolved into a real political and policy making partnership. Both parties want to see the alliance work and have incentives for that happening, especially during an election year.

Bill Clinton has served as a juggernaut in fundraising for Obama, a reminder that the last time the economy did so well, a Democrat was in power. For Clinton, closer ties with the present White House administration means he can help shape the future of the party he was the leader of for close to a decade.

Obama’s campaign for reelection has let Clinton know that he will be a top surrogate, which is further evidence of the way the two camps have become closer since the 2008 bitter Democratic primary involving Hillary Clinton and Obama.

Sunday night the Obama and Clinton will make their first of three appearances together at a fundraiser for Obama’s reelection campaign. The host of the party will be a close adviser to the Clintons, Terry McAuliffe, who is one of their biggest supporters.

Clinton’s acceptance and willingness to being a good soldier for Obama’s campaign could help pay significant dividends politically for Hillary Clinton. She has been talked about for running for the presidency in 2016, despite her repeated denials. She has been helped enormously through her partnership with the Obama administration and her popularity has skyrocketed throughout her stint in Obama’s Cabinet.