Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Will Ms. Clinton be Secretary of State?

President-elect Obama is in the process of making a decision that could make or break his presidency. Does he select Hillary Clinton as his Secretary of State? If he doesn't, do the Clintons make his life miserable? If he does, can Ms. Clinton fulfill Obama's ambtion to end America's counter-productive war in Iraq and change US foreign policy for the better?

The answer to these questions will go as far as any in determining the success of Obama's presidency. The economy, I believe, is actually in surprisingly good hands. If you don't believe me, read this recent article in the NY Times by two economic experts very close to Obama. Our economic experts are confident they know what to do.

The most complex issue facing President Obama is foreign policy -- war. Here, confidence is not so apparent. The most pertinent question is, is leaving foreign policy in the hands of Ms. Clinton a good idea? I think so. President Obama seems to think so. But how it will play out, that's what we don't know. To me, Ms. Clinton is the most talented of the talented. Let her do her thing. But she is not without an ego. Will that ego get in the way? Is her mind on the presidency in 2012 or 2016?

If I advised her, I would suggest: Connect yourself to President Obama: Do his work. Make his ambition your own. End the war. Make US foreign policy in the interests of the country again. If you do so, you will reach your more personal goals.

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