It may be entirely too early to start picking cabinet secretaries for a Democratic presidential administration — we’re a long way from choosing a nominee and Bush is still leading in the polls. But Miami Herald columnist Marianne Means offered a great suggestion today (which I received from Carpetbagger regular I fondly call Madre).
Al Gore for Secretary of State.
This makes a lot of sense to me. Gore speech’s last week in New York, which was well-received by everyone except the editorial board of the Washington Post, reminded many people that Gore has statesman-like qualities. His expertise on foreign affairs is unquestioned and his diplomatic skills would be put to excellent use in Foggy Bottom.
After all, Gore has always strived as a competent public official. It’s being a candidate that was always his weakness. Serving as Secretary of State would be perfect for him — less campaign politics, more policy.
As Means mentioned in her column, “Gore appeared more comfortable [last week] wearing a dark business suit and tie than he previously did in earth tones and a beard. He was, well, statesmanlike.”
Come to think of it, picking cabinet members for a yet-to-be-determined Democratic administration is kind of fun. Let’s pencil in Gore at State and Gary Hart at Homeland Defense. Any other suggestions? Let me know.