Name Hillary Secretary of State? Yes, he can!

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November 21, 2:21 PM

by Marj Halperin, Chicago News Examiner

 

Photo courtesy of the London Telegraph

It wasn't a snap decision, for good reason(s).  First, there were some potential conflict of interest issues with Bill's globtrotting (and international fundraising) on behalf of his foundation.  Those issues were apparently cleared to the Obama team's satisfaction in the past few days.

And then there's the issue of Hillary gaining comfort with the decision to do what Rahm Emanuel has done:  walk away from a carefully carved-out Congressional career.  This is no small thing.  Both politicians chose this direction and made a clear path to power (on a strictly-Congressional barometer, i'd suggest Rahm was getting there more quickly than Hillary).  Apparently, she's reconciled with that idea and is now ready to go.  For another post, perhaps:   isn't it interesting Hillary would be the third woman to hold this job?

This is one of those topics where few people will fail to have a strong opinion.  Whether thrilled (hello, cousin Miriam!) or dismayed (see the crabby Chicago Tribune editorial).  Yes, the Trib is correct in stating "there is scant evidence that she played a pivotal role in major foreign policy decisions or in managing global crises."  But I'm not sure that's necessary, especially with Joe Biden on the team.  What she does bring is strong negotiating skills and the grit to stand up for US interests anywhere, any time.  The Trib's suggestion that her loyalty to Obama might not be guaranteed is way off base. 

The Trib underestimates the gravity of taking a job at this level, serving the President.  This is not another opportunity to try to best a rival in a political campaign.  Secretary of State ranks below the President, and pointedly so, but carries considerable power of its own.  Hillary would be taking a top job representing her country--a country in a rather precarious position worldwide, a situation she'll have a unique opportunity to rectify.  She will, of course, serve at the pleasure of the President--so if she didn't serve well, she wouldn't last in the job.  But that won't be an issue.  

I, for one, am willing to take this bet waged by Illinois' new favorite son (Obama), based on the theories of a former Illinois President (Lincoln), banking on the skills of another Illinois-bred leader (Clinton).  The media hasn't been so much in love with Abe Lincoln since, well, emancipation.  So let's give his "Team of Rivals" approach a chance. 

Related Elections 2008 info: 
The Obama Administration at a glance
Meet the new U.S. House members
Meet the new U.S. Senators
Examiner nationwide straw poll
Examiner Coverage: Elections 2008
 

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