A brilliant appointment that sends many messages. For starters, it suggests that intellect, competance, and respect for diplomatic skill and nuanced policy trump arrogance, hubris and sable-rattling. And for Obama's personal profile, it suggests a provocative level of presidential self-confidence. This will not be a leader concerned about internecine power plays, settling old scores, or avoiding threats from those he's competed against. He is maximizing his administration's success by sailing past petty grievances and politics, aiming for a roster of excellence, not an inside the beltway fan base. He wants an inclusive team to immediately get down to work on the myriad problems facing the nation and world. Appointing Hillary is the cornerstone of his early decision-making, and as an indicator of his style and substance, revelatory. Bravo, and brava.
"I'm a comedian, but in my spare time, things bother me." Garry Shandling