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« 'We ain’t ready, to see a black President' or are we? | Main | Hurricane Katrina: Invisible to the Tourist Eye »


What Could the Obama Cabinet Look Like? Some Startling Suggestions, with Reasons and Consequences

By John T. Bird
November 15, 2008

Change and bipartisanship. The themes of the Obama campaign. What if he applies those to his Cabinet appointments? Here are some possibilities, all serious, but some not likely.

First, Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State. Best reason? She knows all the players and has bigger balls than the villains she would have to deal with. Second best reason? It would get her out of the Senate, where she could otherwise be a major pain in the ass for President Obama. Worst drawback? Bill would have to divest himself of all those foreign financial entanglements. Possible unintended consequence? Hillary would dump Bill, to get rid of the conflicts.

Second, John McCain for Secretary of Defense. Best reason? It sends a message to the world that President Obama is dead serious about reaching across the aisle. Second best reason? McCain would be replaced in the Senate by an appointment made by the Democratic Governor, Janet Napolitano. Although Arizona law says the replacement has to be of the same party as McCain, the 17th Amendment to the US Constitution seems to make that inoperable, but even if she does have to appoint a Republican, she can pick one of Barry Goldwater's family who supported Obama. Worst drawback? President Obama would have to select a very strong personality as Under Secretary of Defense, to keep McCain on track. Possible unintended consequence? A huge fight in the Senate over confirmation. One wonders if all the Republicans attacking McCain right now could be persuaded to vote for approval of his appointment. Lieberman could be the floor leader for the vote.

Third, Bill Clinton for Secretary of the Treasury. Best reason? See US economy, 1993-2000. Second best reason? He would have to divest himself of all the whorish foreign investments he made. Possible unintended consequence? He and Hillary would still see each other at cabinet meetings, even if she dumps him. (see above)

Fourth, Kathleen Sebelius for Secretary of Energy. Best reason? She has staked out the most forward looking position on energy alternatives of any Governor in the nation and understands how to work with Republicans, Democrats and special interests effectively. Second best reason? She would be well-positioned to serve for two years and then run for Senate in Kansas. Possible unintended consequence? Lots of dominoes falling in Kansas, filling positions opened by people moving up.

Fifth, Janet Napolitano for Attorney General, since Michelle Obama cannot be appointed, thanks to the Kennedys. Best reason? She was Anita Hill's attorney and will drive Clarence Thomas absolutely nuts. Second best reason? One of the top five best Governors in the nation and a possible Presidential candidate in 2016, she will have a chance to earn her Washington spurs. Possible unintended consequence? She might have to run against her own appointee for the Senate, if McCain were selected as Secretary of Defense (see above) and she decided to do a Sebelius (see above).

The possibilities abound.


Comments (2)

Jerry Jacobs Author Profile Page:

Possibilities! You've given this some thought, I can tell. I enjoyed your post. Thanks.

Nora Thomason Author Profile Page:

Love this blog!

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