Hillary Clinton's First Day on the Job

50-50

Hillary has no great track record managing a diverse group of people; her efforts as First Lady with the WH staff had some mixed results (anyone remember the WH travel office??). She seems to do well when she surrounds herself with rabidly loyal lieutenants who can be dispatched to do the dirty work.

I don't know if this approach will work at State. This seems to be an agency, among all of them, with rather exalted opinions of themselves and their precious "diplomacy." At least for me, "diplomacy" is not something I immediately think of when Hillary's name pops up. My usual association is "iron maiden," or "my way or the highway."

State has been somewhat of a backwater these last few years, so for a local Washington hand like myself, its going to be fun and interesting theater for a while to watch the Hillary vs. State Department career/entrenched bureaucracy. ALSO, she has given early signals she feels she should be part (what part?) of Obama's economic recovery plan, and my guess is she thinks she can roll Gates.

It all adds up to great political theater!! Does anyone think she will still be at State in two years?

curmudgeon10 of VA @ Jan 23, 2009 07:20:10 AM

Congratulations Hillary - We love you!

I believe President Obama made a great choice in selecting you as Secretary of State for the United States of America. My family and I love you and truly appreciate your genuine love, compassion and sacrifice for us, the American people -- you have inspired us all! The challenge ahead of you will be difficult and is extraordinarily large, nevertheless, I (we) trust you will continue to be successful in service to the American people as you work toward restoring political, economic and military relations with countries around the globe. As always, you will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Steve Wilkey of GA @ Jan 23, 2009 01:32:24 AM

Congrats Hillary

You are truly a asset to our government. You are someone very special I honestly feel that with this administration we will get peace in the world good luck al thou I don’t think you will need it…….

Mary Palmquist of FL @ Jan 22, 2009 19:27:07 PM