Clinton prepares to relinquish independence

[ProSense]

Clinton prepares to relinquish independence

By BETH FOUHY, Associated Press Writer Beth Fouhy, Associated Press Writer – 24 mins ago

NEW YORK – For years, Hillary Rodham Clinton set aside her own considerable ambition to promote her husband's political career.

Now, as President-elect Barack Obama's choice to be secretary of state, the former first lady faces the prospect of subsuming her political identity yet again — this time on behalf of the man who dashed her hopes of returning to the White House in her own right.

Friends said the potential loss of her independence, hard won by her election to the Senate from New York in 2000, caused Clinton to waver last week as she considered Obama's offer. But advisers said the discussions got back on track after he promised she would have considerable input on staffing decisions and plenty of access to him.

Aides said that while the deal is not yet final, the president-elect is on track to nominate Clinton as the nation's top diplomat after Thanksgiving.

Obama's decision to choose Clinton has stunned many observers riveted by the two Democrats' epic primary battle, leading some to question how this high-profile partnership might work.

Among the issues: Why would Obama choose someone he repeatedly criticized for voting for the U.S. invasion of Iraq to be the face of his administration's foreign policy? Why would he abrogate his famous "no drama" policy and embrace Clintonian theatrics?

And why would Clinton subordinate her strong personality and views to be a global ambassador for Obama? Throughout the campaign, she insisted he didn't have the experience to be president and dismissed his willingness to meet with rogue leaders as "irresponsible and frankly naive."

Obama's advisers said the matter is simple: The strengths Clinton would bring to the job would outweigh the drawbacks.

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Bill Clinton, whose network of business dealings and global philanthropic efforts might have complicated his wife's efforts, has also done his part to make the partnership work. He's agreed to step away from day-to-day operation of his foundation while his wife serves and to submit speeches and business deals for administration vetting.

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Friends say that even though Clinton would be relinquishing independence to become secretary of state, the position confers enormous responsibility and importance that being one of 100 senators doesn't match.

"She'll represent the president but she'll also represent the United States. Anybody would be proud to serve in that position," said Wesley Clark, the former NATO commander who has known Clinton for more than two decades. "It's a great opportunity for her to be involved in national decision-making at a crucial time in America."

Interesting.

[Jennicut]

1. I think she will really end up liking this role, the main ambassador to other countries for Obama

[wisteria]

2. What strengths does she bring? For the life of me I can't see any of them.

Do leaders overseas find her to be that strong and what experience does she really have. Oh, and I am just thrilled about her perhaps having major decision making authority. I though health care was her strong suite- I never heard her mentioned in foreign policy circles as being a go to person.

[beachmom]

3. She is well regarded internationally. I think she will do a good job.

There will be many foreign policy experts contributing to this effort. She is smart and will learn.

Again, the people I know in Europe wanted her to be President. They wanted HER, not just saying they wanted Bill. Now that they have gotten to know Obama they are happy he is President. But believe me, the name Clinton is a well respected name out in the world.