First thoughts: Hillary at State?

the Pajama Pundit — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:26:25 GMT

T.Boone was on The Daily Show the other night. That dude is not only smart, but can deliver a message quite well. I was impressed.

Charlie Crist will be one of the future leaders of the GOP. So will Bobby Jindal.

Sarah P. doesn't stand a chance.

http://thepajamapundit.com/

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

j ferguson, Green Cove Springs — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:30:11 GMT

What's wrong with you people? Couldn't naming Hillary to State be a good idea simply because she would be very good at it?

I never thought she would be a good president, but she could be a superb Secretary of State.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Babs — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:32:08 GMT

I wish someone would realize that Hillary Clinton would make a perfect Supreme Court Justice. She's smart, knowledgeable, and can see both sides of an issue. Hint, hint.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

newdayDawning — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:34:07 GMT

Here's a question I have. If an investigation happens, which it should since Coleman is the world's biggest sleaze, how long will take before he is kicked out of Congress?

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Couldn't be Sweeter — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:34:25 GMT

Hillary as SecofState? Perfect. And in a year or two, Obama can fire her. She won't have any Senate to go back to, unless she carpetbags it to yet another state, and her and Bill will finally be through for good.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

jo from mo Tiger Fan — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:34:39 GMT

I hope Hillie stays in the senate. Governor Richardson would certainly make a much better Secretary of State. And, actually we need HRC in the senate more than we do the gov to stay in NM.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Ron Indiana — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:35:43 GMT

Many think picking Hillary for Sec. of State is a good idea. I concur.

I am "Just wondering" When Hillary and Barack in Barbara Boxer's DC home 6 months ago, could Hillary have said, "I'm not interested in VP, but I am interested in Sec. of State. Hillary knows you can leave the VP out of the look (like Bill would occasionally do with Al), but Sec of State is a limelight position and Hillary loves the limelight.

Also, this decision would break the tie between John Kerry and Bill Richardson. Both could feel they lost to a superior candidate.

Just Wondering II: Biden is in his mid 60's and may not want to run in 2012. In steps Hillary to counter-balance silly Sarah. Plus that would put her in line to run again...someday.

Will she take the position? Yes, if offered. Will it be offered? Yes it will. Obama team does not release information until he's ready.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Mike, Clevelad, Ohio — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:35:44 GMT

Can you guys honestly back off on the Hillary bashing. Possibly, picking Hillary Clinton for Secretary of State would a diplomatic move. She has traveled to so many countries, as you forgot to report in your First Read, she is a world leader on woman's right, as you forgot to point out, and he former first lady could also enhance Obama's efforts to restore U.S. standing amongst allies worldwide.

MSNBC, I understand why your internet traffic has dropped off so much since June. Lighten up on her, we know you do not like her

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Ed, San Antonio — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:36:16 GMT

Betcha' Boone and Bush are joined at the OILY hip! I got so sick of his commercials running incessantly with the wind stuff.

More like a lot of hot air! Who died and made Boone King?!

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Still Broke in Florida — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:38:37 GMT

Yes ! Yes ! Yes ! Hillary Clinton for Secretary of State. This would be fantastic, and would send a clear message to the world that thing are "chainging" for the better in the good old USA.*** Check out this new web site... CHANGE.GOV .

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Ridley Collins, Texas — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:39:05 GMT

T. Boone Pickens is farting in silk lately. He knows Obama will invest billions into the bs business of windpower and other goofball ideas. Nothing will ever come of it, but who will be there to pick up the easy government funding? T. Boone. Like taking candy from a baby.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Free American Tehachapi Ca. — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:39:08 GMT

Toss her a bone and calm masses.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Choo Choo Charlie — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:40:18 GMT

Republicans need to just sit back, relax, and watch the train wreck aka the Obama Administration.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

dl, Exeter NH — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:40:58 GMT

and lets not forget McCain meets with Obama on Monday.
I see a very bright sun coming through the clouds...

I have to say what a cynical posting about the reasoning behind Hillary as the choice for SOS.

and kind of stupid I may add.

the job of SOS is to negotiate and diplomatically influence what we need in the world...

who...name me one...that will bring more into that room when they walk in to the table than Hillary Clinton

and anyone who has seen a comment from me over the past year knows ...I was not a Hillary fan.

but to say Obama is picking Hillary to get her out of the Senate is ...stupid AT BEST.

sorry but it is...think about what you are writing...she is the best person for that job...and if Obama has shown us one thing over the last year...from picking Bill Clinton's best choices to his staff...he puts ability and effectiveness in the actual future job...first.

I called this appointment a year ago in November when I saw them all in NH. Obama as Pres...Biden as VP and Clinton as SOS....because I thought Obama was the guy he is... a guy who is so smart ...he picks THE BEST person for the job..not picks on the bologne you all just wrote. ugh

get out of the Wasjington circle cynical dumb...Foxnews mentality...please...

this is a great appointment if she takes it...

and if she ever wants to be President ...it's what she needs .

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

j fl — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:41:09 GMT

Hey Chuck, what is with you guys? Can't you give Hillary, a female, any credit at all? How about she is probably the best choice for the job? How about she is the most intelligent and qualified for the job? The "little lady" won't be hurting or threatening Obama, don't worry. You can stop protecting him. They both can handle themselves professionally and respectfully. Both have showed this, especially Hillary Clinton.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Eric, Salinas, CA — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:41:44 GMT

So funny that now conservative is becoming a dirty word and a slur. About timne that these extremists get their comeuppance as they have reaped what they have sown! Too bad they're too stupid to believe they are the problem, not!

"Eric from Salinas, California, why do you always put forth hateful comments? One would think you are a bigot for talking such trash all the time. Remember the golden rule, do unto others as you would have them do unto you!
Chris, Houston, texas"

Hey Chris - just returning the favor of 40 years of trash talking repugnant ones trashing us Democrats and Liberals. Oh have you forgotten about all that trash talking coming from them so soon, which still continues? I am doing unto those others what they have done unto us for so many years. Go bug the evangelical christian lunatic fringers who started all this!

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Ms Jenny — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:43:07 GMT

1) Hillary as Secretary of State? PERFECT!

2) Republican party? Pawlenty and Crist will be its new leaders, mark my words.

3) Sarah Palin? Still an idiot. For some strange reason, she's still giving her stump speech. And she's still attacking Obama on a number of issues, despite calling for and end to partisanship and a need to come together. This woman is a moron of the highest caliber.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

AndrewP, Miami, FL — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:45:27 GMT

I think Hillary would be a terrific choice for several reasons:

1) She has extensive knowledge and interest in World Affairs.

2) Bill could help.

3) It solves the VP problem...what do we do w/Bill?

4) Bill could be appointed "Ambassador at Large/sans portfolio" under State Department aegis, allowing him to help negotiate trouble spots or fractious world leaders...Kashmir, Venezuela, Iran...you name it. He'd have a lot of clout

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Pat Huntington NY — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:46:00 GMT

As a former Hillary Supporter turned Obama supporter, I am not sure how I feel about appointing her Sec. of State. On one hand, she's unquestionably qualified for the post. On the other hand, her experience is much needed in the US Senate to get Obama's agenda passed through Congress. AND...on the other hand, why would she want to answer to Obama? I am not surprised Obama is considering her, but I would be very surprised if she accepts an offer.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Eric, Salinas, CA — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:46:28 GMT

Typical that the repugnant ones are whining about how the Minnesota automatic vote recount is going. Had the positions been reversed Coleman never would have said no to the recount. Now he's lawyering up trying to intimidate Minnesota the way the repugnant one's goon squad intimidated the vote recount in Florida in 2000. I hope Franken wins!

I'm so enjoying how Mark Begich is now leading the convicted felon. I saw him on Rachel's show last night and he is so much better than the ancient felon. I hope that Begich wins to show "Sinner" Sarah her false god has slammed that door to the Senate in her face.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Full Moon — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:48:24 GMT

I love T. Boone Pickens, but I can't figure out why he doesn't just move to Oklahoma. It's so much nicer than Texas. Texas has better gay bars, but Oklahoma is a lot prettier.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Eric, Salinas, CA — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:50:33 GMT

Maybe somne good will come of the stinging defeat the repugnant ones just suffered. Maybe they will become more like us Liberal Democrats since they've seen that the country is sick and tired of their divisive nonsense of cultural values. It will take a long time before they ever get to appealing to Mainstream America by moving towards the middle.

It's so funny how all the complaints about Obama not appealing to people in the suburbs or rural areas ended up being all wrong. Makes a mockery of that whole nonsense about real America, as it should.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Nashville_fan — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:51:00 GMT

President Elect Obama.

'Nuff Said.

:)

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Ginny Triponi, Sarasota, FL — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:53:10 GMT

As soon as Joe was chosen for VP, I immediately said that Hilary would be the best choice for Secretary of State for the Barack Administration. It is just logic. With her also comes Bill who the rest of the world, especially the Middle East, love. Barack could send her and Bill out into the world to make peace and schmooze everyone while Barack and Joe take care of the U.S. internal issues. Best of both worlds. It would definitely use Bill to the best of his ability and stop the rivalry and give Hilary some more chops for future Presidential elections.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

marty,columbia,s.c. — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:53:32 GMT

As an Obama supporter from day one, I feel good about Hillary at state, I know who will be in charge every step of the way. Hillary is a smart, pardon me one of the smartest women I know of, would be very proud to have her in a top position in this administration. She will do us all proud. I like her better than Kerry, or Richardson. Didnt Lugar say he wasnt intrested. All in All - GO HILLARY
I think this will be one of the best run administration ever, people with differing opionons,
people strong enough to stand up for thier positions
and fight for what they think is right. With a President who is not above listening to the people he hired for hard jobs, a man that will be able to change his mind if it is the right thing to do. I have to say that today I am worried about the lack of oversight on the Bailout bill
marty

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Camille Favre, Canfield, Ohio — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:54:31 GMT

Crist was using Republican pollster Frank Luntz' "words" this a.m. on Morning Joe. I saw Luntz' presentation on C-span last night and it set some tactics for a Republican comeback. Watch the Rs parrot all the phrases Luntz gave them!

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

jawillie, Philadelphia, PA. — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:55:44 GMT

>>>The best reason for Obama to be looking for a place in his cabinet for Clinton is simple: to get her out of the Senate....The upside for Obama putting Clinton at State (or even the Pentagon) is that it gets her out of the Senate and gets her out of the domestic policy debates.
==========
Not to mention pleasing the so-called PUMAs who are waiting for him to screw-up, and generally getting her out of his way. I like the Clintons, but they have a real problem with their egos (as we've seen) and could easily get in the way of any constructive policy.

>>>...the L.A. Times reports that Axelrod and Plouffe are leaning toward turning everything over to the DNC -- since they'll "own" the DNC.
==========
A bit of hubris here, don't you think? Be careful and remember the saying "Pride goeth before the fall." The Republicans are wallowing in their beer at this moment for the same reason.

>>>*** If you can’t beat them, co-opt their message? Charlie Crist closed out the Republican Governors Association meeting last night with a speech that could be the kind of message that not only paves the way forward for the party, but for his own career on a national stage. He was post-partisan, stressing inclusiveness, working together, and above all getting things done. It was a polished, practiced speech about expanding majorities, instead of being pigeonholed to the base. Frankly, there seemed to be a lot of Obama in it…
==========
This is no different than what they've been doing the entire campaign. I suppose it's a good thing, though, as it seems that some are starting to wake up to it. Now if only they can get themselves to believe it.

67 Days Until Inauguration Day!
http://jawillie.blog.com

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Facts — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:56:34 GMT

The bag lady as Sec of state. WOW, that's got to be a behind the door Joke!!!! Just another stupid move. The pied piper and another has been, Obama building massive failure. Just shocking.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Dan St. Louis, MO — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:58:11 GMT

I keep hearing criticism (mostly from Republicans) of Obama and what his policies might bring. Yet the Republican party keeps picking up the Obama message, tweaking it, and putting it out there, representing the ideas as their own. Now, Gov. Crist has gotten into the act.
Some Republicans have figured out that you cannot court the extreme base of your party without alienating many voters.
Most voters are moderates, with both liberal and conservative views. Less than 1/4 of the electorate is extreme liberal or conservative. If the Republicans would have realized that and accepted it during the 2008 campaign, the outcome might have been different. Instead, the party chose to try to demoralize the opponent, turning off many voters.
The demographics may change before 2012, but it won't change much. Both parties will continue to need to reach moderate voters if they want to win the election. But both parties also need to come up with viable solutions for our country. Whether that will happen remains to be seen.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Auntie Fascist — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:58:23 GMT

The Club For Growth (and I'm pretty sure it's not MY growth that they're looking out for) has been a single issue, Hitler Youth bunch of wingnuts for far too long! They deserve to wallow in misery indefinitely. Republicans - you can have the Club For Growth vote or you can have my vote, but you can't have both!

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

J. Ellis, Virginia — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:58:49 GMT

*** If you can’t beat them,......

I wish Gov. Crist would sit Pat Buchanan and Joe Scarborough down and tell them in clear, simplistic terms that the old, lame Republican rhetoric does not work any longer. Buchanan confirmed he was the worse as I watched last night on Hardball as he offended the black Republican strategist on the show with his intolerant, divisive tone.

The Republicans cannot hope to appear progressive in their message if Buchanan keeps on talking about Adalai Stevenson and other relics from a hundred years ago. Sarah Palin and Pat Buchanan are on the same page with their attacks and complaints but offers very few solutions.

At this rate, the Repubs have a lot of work ahead of them in how their party is perceived and received by the majority of the electorate.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Beverly in Chicago — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:00:26 GMT

Either Kerry or Richardson for state secretary. HRC skills could not be maximized as such. Besides, she may encounter sniper fire.

There is no conservative purity game to be played out on the trail unless they think about the biggest mea culpa, sinner Gov Plain. If I were a republican I would rebuke a woman who pits segments of the country against itself; furthermore, I would never want a little girl to emulate a woman who wears only a towel to cover her body and head in front of campaign aides.

It‘s for this clarity, if nothing else, I have no qualms. President elect Obama is ready to lead in a far greater, sagacious, manner than Bush/Cheney/McCain. Really, it doesn’t take a sage or blind person to assess the magnitude of how America is hurting.
The focus is now to continue what we did. We cannot exclaim change is in the air, if we negate those hard fought efforts we contributed.
Why do you think there were so many tears of joy Election Night? In addition, we’ll get a historic tee. In my opinion, the tee is a forever reminder of a government by the people, for the people we-- is what we and President elect Obama want starting from the bottom up . There should be no anger or regrets, I think!

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Mia in Miami — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:02:05 GMT

Bobby J. R. Gov. of St. Louise seems like a great contendor for 2012, though a lot of conservatives would rather vote for Sarah Palin (don't know the sense in that). I would like to see those two great minds debate it out.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Diane from Illinois — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:07:00 GMT

I'm anxiously awaiting to see who Obama is going to pick for his cabinet. He's done everything for a reason so far and I don't think he'll stop now. A lot of thought will have gone into his picks; that's why everybody wants to know who they are!

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

katiec Pekin, IL — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:08:22 GMT

Hillary is qualified for several positions.
I would like to see a man appointed to Secretary
of State because of the countries involved.
Many do not honor or respect women and do believe
more can be accomplished with a man in this
position.
As a woman do not feel am being a sexist. Just
pointing out some obvious facts.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

HILLARY WOULD ADD AN ELEMENT OF SANITY ... — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:09:01 GMT

HILLARY WOULD AT LEAST ADD AN ELEMENT OF SANITY TO AN OBAMA OTHERWISE INSANE FOREIGN POLICY.

The ledears of our enemies will "Eat Obama for Lunch!"

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Rick,Ky — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:10:39 GMT

I havta say, there's alot of disgruntled Republican's out there.Mostly, it's the ones who thought Cowboy George had an iota of a Brain.However, there's lot's of Republican's & Moderates who stopped drinking the kool-aid, just before the American Massacre was complete(2006).

Being an early Obama supporter, reading these post is better than watching Comedy Central.If you need a laugh anytime of day, just come read any post from the Right Wing Terrorist without a gun groupies.Being realigned to the bottom of American Politic's is Not good enough for these people, whose only desire is "Do as i say, Not as i do" mentality. They need to linger in the political wilderness for several cycles contemplating their Stupidity. Moaning & Groaning about what may have been if only the Skies had opened up & whisked them away from us Real American's.

I'm thouroughly enjoying their demise, as many other Real American's are, i'm sure. I want them to continue listening to Rush, Sean, Laura & all other's who wanting nothing but to have Everyone live in Fear of the Unknown. They'll never admit to the Mistake of voting for Cowboy George, knowing that everything the man ever touched,"Went to Crap" in a short period of time.

So my thanks go out to all those who finally realized that mistake & woke up to Real Life. It's gonna take a long time to recover from GWB"S failure's & the Right wing Terrorist without a gun organization.

Delusional Thinking By Commonsense American's is Finally Over !

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Suburban Mom paying attention, IL — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:11:33 GMT

"He was post-partisan, stressing inclusiveness, working together, and above all getting things done."

Charlie Crist, Olympia Snowe, Susan Collins, and any remaining MODERATE Republicans will hopefully be able to take control of the GOP and steer it back on course toward reasonable leadership. The old ways of Karl Rove-style hate-and-divide politics are no longer successful (thank goodness!); so hopefully the true power behind the GOP will recognize that the only acceptable direction for them is back toward the center.

Sarah Palin = wilderness, in more ways than one.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

John (Reno, NV.) — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:23:05 GMT

As opposed to the success on a grand scale we enjoyed for the last eight years, Choo Choo? Where the hell were you?

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Richard, OIF 06 — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:24:09 GMT

Keep making those divisive appointments Mr. President Elect. The same weak minded people who gave you a "narrow" victory can sober up and snatch it from you in 48 months, and ACORN won’t be around to cook the vote. Don't expect an accommodating House and Senate two years from now either. You might want to ask Bill Clinton what happened to his Congress just two years into his sordid regime.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Dan St. Louis, MO — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:29:19 GMT

This Obama supporter does not want to see Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State. Nor would I want to see John Kerry or Bill Richardson in that position.
I believe a Clinton appointment would cause divisiveness between the parties, as would a Kerry selection (though possibly not as divisive).
Richardson, while a good man, I don't feel is a good candidate for that position. Richardson reminds me of a "male Palin", except that he's not as extreme (or conservative). But both don't appear to me to quite have it all together for that position.
Who would I like to see? I'd prefer someone who is familiar in foreign affairs, such as Hagel or Lugar. Originally being from Indiana, I would love to see Lugar or Bayh, although I'm not sure Bayh has the right credentials.
So for now, I'm undecided. I'll let the Obama team pick the person they want. I'll then research that pick and make my decision on how I feel about the pick accordingly. No reason to jump on the "who deserves it more" bandwagon since there will be a myriad of opinions on who is most deserving.
I'd like to hear opinions of others. However, if those opinions have nothing constructive in them (in other words, you slam, insult, ridicule, or make nothing but negative comments about the candidate), then I will not value your opinion, nor will I consider that opinion. Don't like it, too bad. That is the way I am.
If you have issues with a certain candidate, tell me why without namecalling or insulting that candidate.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Indie Woman in Denver — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:33:25 GMT

A couple of random thoughts...

A Dem won in IDAHO??? Are you KIDDING me? Clearly, the Club for Growth is WAY beyond far right and into WACKO country if the Idahoans aren't voting for them.

It's great to see Tom Friedman back in the thick of the political discussion on the various Sunday talk shows, HB, Countdown, et al., after 8 years of the Bush WH "banning" him. And he definately hasn't been just sitting around -- he's published 2 or 3 major books and done at least one TV documentary (about the IT industry in India a few years ago).

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Is this a joke? — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:33:51 GMT

I always find it interesting that so many people see HRC as well qualified. She won the Senate on Bill's coattails and could not win an election when she was the odds-on favorite. She has almost no govt experience (I'm sorry but First Lady is not a govt position). So why would world leaders respect her?

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

maria tantillo — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:37:45 GMT

To see some of the most respected anaylists speak so poorly about a woman who has worked much harder than most men is unexceptable. Chuck Todd you are a big disappointment. The campaigning Hillary did for Obama is what sold me to vote for him. Her dedication for everything she believes in is unmatched with any other politition. Show her the same amount of respect she showed Obama and show us you also can be as proffesional as she.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Bob in Charlotte, NC — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:46:34 GMT

Who are these morons who don't understand T Boone's energy plan? Who really doesn't believe it better to utilize wind and solar power technologies as well as use natural gas which the US has plenty of in order to get off oil as much as possible? The ignorance of the American general public never ceases to make me want to cry.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Dan Albuquerque NM — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:48:36 GMT

Hillary would be a disaster as Sec of State. She would be better served in the Senate.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

MSierra, SF — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:54:25 GMT

Hillary as Secretary of State ?

Well, it depends.....

Is this a 'Ship of State' or a sit-com ?

If it's a sit-com, Hillary would be perfect

Every week we'd have her trying to undermine Obama
Include Howard Wolfson and Mark Penn

A continuing gag could be Bill popping in with a new honey
They'd all have 'big hair'

I still think Bill would make a great ambassador to the Play

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

nuanced — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:59:58 GMT

"it’s considered unseemly to practice politics while serving in one of the big cabinet posts"

Does that mean the Bush secretaries were unseemly?

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Paul from Small Falls, New York — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 16:00:34 GMT

The best spot for Hillary would be Health and Human Services. BO will need a strong hand to move health care and she has the knowledge and can work Congress. Her credibility with foreign leaders ain't great.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Caroline — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 16:03:22 GMT

Hillary Clinton has earned the position of Secretary of State. She is intelligent, articulate, and diplomatic. She is a law graduate, spent 8 years in the White House promoting healthcare, is now the New York Senator, and ran a good campaign against Obama. She won the popular vote but did not get the delegate votes.

She earned Secretary of State as indicated by how graciously she conceded defeat to Obama and diligently worked by his side in the campaign to elect the first African-American President. Who else do you know that is a minority that would fill the post better? Certainly not Sarah Palin. Voters don't want a hockey mom or Joe the plumber to run their country, even though they are down-to-earth and folksy. They want someone smarter than themselves with more experience in government and foreign policies. Good luck, Hillary, you deserve the post!! Senator Kerry would also be a good choice.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Redmosquito — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 16:04:13 GMT

The great thing about HILL as Secretary of State is the real, practical use of the term "work together" to solve the country's problems. And Christ.. are there a lot of them!! I like the idea of getting the best people possible to fill positions. I would also add that Gov. Richardson should get something prominent in this cabinet. This guy has a proven track record and helped deliver the key Latino vote for Obama. Unless he wants to explain in four years why Richardson got snubbed, I say give him something like Education or Energy. And lastly... while in a perfect world a person like John McCain would have a spot in this cabinet as Head of Veterans Affairs. Mr. Country First, I love the Vets, NO ONE cares more about the Vets, etc... , should be given a chance to finally put his actions where his mouth is. But John McCain is NOT the John McCain of 2000, and that's the real shame. I LIKED that guy. But if we're to move forward as a country... we need the BEST people in the KEY positions, regardless of who they are or what party they represent.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Ron, MA — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 16:05:48 GMT

Being the comsumate politician he is, President-elect Obama would like nothing more that to neuter Hillary Clinton by getting her out of the Senate. During the primary debates, he grudgingly agreed with her on nearly all of the policy positions she presented, his own being fairly weak especially in health care and energy. He doesn't want someone in the Senate pushing better policies that he developed. I case anyone wonders, I did vote for Senator Obama.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Tim NY — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 16:09:48 GMT

The Hill & Bill show continues. Beam me up Scotty - there is no intelligent life here!

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

nuanced — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 16:11:39 GMT

instead of Club for Growth we should take a non-violent approach such as I Heart for Growth ;)

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Nancy, WI — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 16:11:58 GMT

Hillary is head and shoulders above either Kerry or Richardson. As candidates,Kerry muddled whatever message he intended, while Richardson's message seemed to begin with his resume. Hillary would be great. Now, could the First Read staff stop the petty politicking and concentrate on the idea of governing.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

joe, sioux city, iowa — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 16:15:06 GMT

HILLARY CLINTON FOR SECRETARY OF STATE ?

WILL SOMEONE PLEASE CHECK HER EXPIRATION DATE.

UNSCREW HER HEAD AND YOU WILL SEE THE CONTENTS ARE SPOILED.

THE WOMAN IS ABRASIVE AND SHE CAN'T TELL FACT FROM FICTION.

DOES AN EMBELLISHER AND A KNOWN LIAR DESERVE ANYTHING ?

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Rock,Janesville,Wisconsin — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 21:43:23 GMT

I really think that she is qualified to run the State Department, however her true skills are much more geared for the Senate. The GOP in the Senate are going to be a real political challenge to deal with. Hillary has the skills, and "political brass knuckles" to help keep the GOP in line. The GOP is having a "nervous breakdown" over getting politically killed in this election. I have never read about so many GOP "temper tantrums" in my whole life! What a joke!

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Bill, Napa, CA — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 21:43:38 GMT

What is going to happen to the US? Hillary as SOS is just the start of our downfall and further deterioration in our position in the world. Look on the bright side--maybe she can go into most of those countries under fire like she lied about during the primaries!! Maybe Obama will have her do all that negotiation with our enemies that he preached during the campaign! Look out US, now the Dems want to remove long term experienced republicans from the few influencial spots they have on committees and the American (fools)voting public gave them the power to do it.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

arealamerician, va. — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 21:56:52 GMT

Republicans need to just sit back, relax, and watch the train wreck aka the Obama Administration.
Choo Choo Charlie (Sent Friday, November 14, 2008 9:40 AM)

Kinda like the last eight years with Bush at the helm.
Question name one thing that the republican leadership has gotten right in the last ten years?

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

ndlily — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 21:58:16 GMT

So how would having an entrenched Washington-ite like Clinton as Secretary of State be change again? Clinton may have been a much better president than Bush, but he was not the model to follow, and Mrs. was there every step of the way. And I still remember her so-called campaign, with its ridiculous lies and mudslinging. I think Obama would be sending a horrid message giving her anything with as much power as State. It may be no drama Obama, but Hillary is all about drama.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Pooch, Santa Fe — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 22:11:24 GMT

Bill Richardson would be an excellent choice for
Secretary of State. He has the moxy and the savvy
for the job with experience as UN Ambassador to boot.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Native Sister, Anchorage, AK — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 22:31:23 GMT

Senator Hillary Clinton is a better woman than the "Pitbull with Lipstick". Ms. Clinton is intelligent, better educated, and can speak English using coherent sentences.

The "Pitbull" is an embarassment to Alaska. It is dangerous when religion and government are not separate. S.P. has no business preaching from the political stage and to propose that the U.S. Constitition be amended according to her religious beliefs.

As an Alaska Native and a woman, I definitely do not support S.P just because she is female. I fervently hope the U.S. does not support her for any political endeavors in the future. Up here in Alaska, we get many "End-of-Roaders" who do not accurately represent us, the original residents of the state. It is true that the pipeline imported many from Oklahoma and Texas who changed the political and religious climate of our state. We also, unfortunately, get stuck with people like S.P. who cause us division in-state and are inaccurate portrayal of our people. Thank god I am an indigenous woman who does not have extreme religious convictions to rationalize bigotry and intolerance.

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

TBooneIsRight, OKC, OK — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 22:31:27 GMT

T. Boone is right, he's always been right on the next best thing in energy and the next best investment. It makes sense to utilize wind power, especially in Oklahoma 'where the wind comes sweeping down the plain' BUT - one good Oklahoma tornado and an entire field of wind towers could disappear in an instant, costing millions to replace - and what do we do for power in the meantime? What's the back-up plan before we flip the switch and turn it all over to mother nature?

First thoughts: Hillary at State?

Lynda in CT — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 22:13:15 GMT

I have a couple of thoughts on Hillary.
First..stay in senate, Sen. Kennedy will need a replacement for the causes he champions.
Second...Supreme Court Justice..she'd be a thoughtful, intelligent justice.