Ethics

Speculating on Obama White House

By Ed Brayton

Politico had an article a few days ago speculating on who might be filling key positions in an Obama administration. There are reports out that Rahm Emanuel is going to be Obama's chief of staff, which would suggest that Obama is taking seriously the notion of governing from the middle. That is where all of Emanuel's instincts lie and he will be in a position of great influence to make that happen.

There is much speculation that Obama may keep Robert Gates on as Secretary of Defense for at least a year, which I think is a good move. It would signal bipartisanship and it would keep a steady hand in the seat to oversee withdrawal from Iraq and policy changes in Afghanistan. Gates has shown himself to be a pragmatist and was a huge step up from Rumsfeld, who often appeared lost to the point of delusion.

Full post as published by Dispatches from the Culture Wars on November 10, 2008 (boomark / email).