Rahm Emanuel Accepts Gig As Obama's Chief Of Staff, Aide Says
After a day or so of "agonizing" over whether to take the job, Rahm Emanuel has accepted the job of Obama's chief of staff, a Democratic aide confirms to us.
The move is an interesting one for a variety of reasons: Emanuel comes out of the Clinton world. He's a longtime D.C. insider joining the administration of a new outsider who is vowing to change Washington.
And he's a bit of a partisan warrior who can bang heads together behind the scenes to implement Obama's agenda while Obama sounds conciliatory, consensus-building tones in public.
It's Obama's first major public appointment.
Late Update: Given my rant below, I should have clarified that we're trying to get official comment from the Obama camp but none is forthcoming yet.
Late Late Update: A couple of other thoughts about the Rahm pick. It's a bit odd, because Rahm is a drama queen -- witness his very public "agonizing" about whether to take the gig -- something that's definitely at odds with what Obama expects from his top people. The choice of Rahm, though, also suggests that Obama is prepared to play rough with Congress when necessary.
You go, boyeeeeeeee!!
November 6, 2008 1:00 PM | Reply | Permalink
Not a fan of this one, but you can't win 'em all.
November 6, 2008 1:03 PM | Reply | Permalink
Great pick, in my opinion. He needs someone in there who will kick ass, and someone who he knows very well (I think Obama's known Emanuel for longer than almost anyone else in Washington).
November 6, 2008 1:03 PM | Reply | Permalink
Right. Obama is ultimately calling the shots. Rahm would directly challenge Obama if he disagreed, but ultimately implement Obama's decision. Obama doesn't seem likely to get bubbled or outmaneuvered by his staff.
If by choosing insiders and the most competent staff to execute his policies he's better able to slipstream legislation through Congress, all the better. I'm more interested in the back bench, the policy wonks. Washington outsiders and Progressive wonks, by definition, won't be the best executives.
It really gets down to Obama's management style. If he's capable of bringing wonky advisers from a diverse background right into policy meetings, then I'm happy with his Cabinet favoring executive ability.
Having said that, I hope Progressive wonks in Obama's Administration will become the new Washington establishment in his second term and beyond.
November 6, 2008 2:30 PM | Reply | Permalink
Great comment. This helps ease my mind a bit over DLC Rahm. Makes perfect sense as a tactical move while not losing any of the strategic direction.
November 6, 2008 3:07 PM | Reply | Permalink
I have mixed feelings about Emanuel -- he's been very sharp on many issues and some of his statements during the election were priceless. OTOH, my understanding is that he harassed Dean for his 50-state strategy which turned out to be a great policy for the Dems.
All in all, I think he'll be fine so long as his point of view is one of many that Pres-elect Obama listens to.
November 6, 2008 1:04 PM | Reply | Permalink
That is my take as well, but I would qualify that by saying that I have nothing but the utmost trust that Obama knows how to tell the difference between good advice and bad (witness how well he ran his campaign despite the insistent and oftentimes obnoxious piles of "advice" being hurled at him), so I have little worry that Obama will be led astray by those aspects of Emmanuel which I find less satisfactory. In other words, while I think that the Emmanuel pick has both strengths and weaknesses, I am quite certain that Obama has keep those weaknesses in check and exploit those strengths effectively.
November 6, 2008 1:13 PM | Reply | Permalink
I generally agree, although I would add my concerns that the Obama team might come to look like a photocopy of the Clinton team.
Still, having Emmanuel play the heavy projects strength to Congress, and lets Obama play good cop. Could be a good match.
Larry Summers at Treasury would be an unmitigated disaster, though.
November 6, 2008 1:20 PM | Reply | Permalink
Anyone who has been watching Obama for awhile is aware that he will be surrounding himself with all sorts of people....including some that he disagrees with. I respect that. We've had a president who surrounded himself with yes-men for eight years and that didn't work out so well.
November 6, 2008 1:20 PM | Reply | Permalink
I share your concerns.
He wasn't a fan of the 50 state strategy, which bothered me at the time, but I guess that's in the past.
November 6, 2008 1:31 PM | Reply | Permalink
The important thing about the 50-state strategy is Emanuel's opinion now. If he's still opposed to it, that's a problem. If he's on board, it means he can change his mind when confronted with the facts. (Be still, my pounding heart.)
[Re: my name. I just signed up. I didn't know what "display name" meant. I do now. Can this be fixed? I thought I was calling myself observerinvancouver.]
November 6, 2008 2:12 PM | Reply | Permalink
Well, dang. Now I'm completely confused. But I've got what I want (I hope). FYI, I typed "whatsthis" in "display name" section of sign up sheet.
November 6, 2008 2:15 PM | Reply | Permalink
I don't mind the agonizing over the job, he has a young family to worry about and personal aspirations (Speaker of the House) he has had to give up. Alexrod and Emanuel are very close friends and Obama has known Rahm since 1999. Furthermore as much of a Clintonista/DLC'er as many assume he is, Emanuel didn't endorse during the Dem Primary, and you know Clinton would have been giving him the hard sell.
I believe he was hyper-partisan because that's what his job description entailed. I like the idea that he doesn't suffer fools and is smart as a whip and quick on his feet. I think both progressives and wing nuts will hate this selection, but moderate folks on both sides who want to get things done will welcome it. Rahm is a closer - he gets things done.
Emanuel will allow Obama to be above the fray for the most part when elbows need to be thrown, so he can be seen post-partisan (as one can be) and a President for all Americans.
Obama has highly respected senator Joe Biden as his point man in dealing with the Senate, and now Rahm Emanuel as his point man in dealings with the House.
What assurances would Rahm have in regards to job security with the position? Bush has had two, Clinton went though four, Bush 41 had three and Reagan had four.
November 6, 2008 1:12 PM | Reply | Permalink
Nice overview, Jonze.
November 6, 2008 1:15 PM | Reply | Permalink
Totally agree with this 100%
November 6, 2008 1:19 PM | Reply | Permalink
All very good points, Jonze. The Biden-Senate, Emmanuel-House point-men thing isn't something I've seen articulated before, but it makes a lot of sense.
November 6, 2008 1:23 PM | Reply | Permalink
So progressives don't want to get things done?
and are in the same camp was "wingnuts"?
November 6, 2008 1:32 PM | Reply | Permalink
Totally nailed it, Jonze!
November 6, 2008 2:06 PM | Reply | Permalink
Co-sign. You nailed it.
I'd add that some people are expecting Obama to operate like Bush, i.e. bubbled by a small circle of staff, or like Bill Clinton, i.e. triangulating in an era of Republican domination and widespread popularity of Reaganomics laissez faire.
Obama is clearly NOT going to be bubbled, and NOT a proponent of laissez faire or ideological deregulation, or the "worst of both worlds" DLC style triangulation.
November 6, 2008 2:45 PM | Reply | Permalink
He was hyper-partisan in a hyper-partisan environment. I wouldn't vote for him for president but he could be an incredible CoS.
Obama is thoughtful, steady, calm, cautious while Rahm isn't. A president really wants someone who is complementary as SoC and I can't think of anyone who fits that bill any better. I suspect they will make an extremely effective pair.
November 6, 2008 3:22 PM | Reply | Permalink
For a look at Rahm Emmanuel just after the '06 elections, with poignant details about how his job affects his family life, see this article from the archives of the Chicago Tribune.
November 6, 2008 6:57 PM | Reply | Permalink
There is no way that someone who is an outsider to DC could do this job effectively. Plus, he's been in the WH before so he'll have a more "been there done that" approach as opposed to a "OMG! I'm working at the WH" - so he can get right to work doing what he needs to do.
November 6, 2008 1:12 PM | Reply | Permalink
And add to this mix his knowledge of the intricacies of the legislative process in the House...these are definite advantages.
I like the pick for those reasons.
November 6, 2008 1:30 PM | Reply | Permalink
And the reason this aide needs anonymity is? And the reason you granted it to him is? And the reason we should trust him is?
Not saying the reasons aren't good. Just sayin' basic journalism recommends you tell us what those reasons are.
November 6, 2008 1:13 PM | Reply | Permalink
OK, I haven't seen much discussion about this: but is there a chance that Obama is putting in place his transition team on a broader scale (chief of staff) with the idea that 6-8 months down the line there may be some shake up?
November 6, 2008 1:13 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm not sure what you're getting at. What does Emanuel have to do with his transition team? What would be the point of a shake-up in 6 months?
November 6, 2008 1:23 PM | Reply | Permalink
Well, there seems to be concern that Rahm is indicative of a direction Barack will be taking his administration. I wonder if it may be more a move for an effective transition with some adjustments to come, maybe not a big shake-up, once the transition process is completed. I realize that Rahm would not be taking on this job if Barack was planning on moving him out quickly. I'm just wondering if it may be worth watching for some changes in 6-12 months.
November 7, 2008 4:43 PM | Reply | Permalink
I like looking at Rahm and I really like the idea of looking at Rahm and the president together - two of the most elegant men in the party.
Inasmuch as it isn't my COS we're talking about, I don't have to work with him - I don't care about anything other than that I get to look at him.
:)
November 6, 2008 1:13 PM | Reply | Permalink
Yes, he is pretty great looking, isn't he? And as Berlusconi said -- they both are "handsome, young and suntanned."
November 6, 2008 1:17 PM | Reply | Permalink
I fucking love the Italians. They are just wacky and you have to love a country that cannot field a successful army to save themselves.
Really - they are the least capable warriors in Europe - and I love them for that. Among many other things.
I'll give an Italian a pass on just about anything. Have you seen that soccer team in Calvin Klein underwear? Mama mia!!!!!
November 6, 2008 1:46 PM | Reply | Permalink
Now all they need is Russ Feingold to complete the good looking, dark, legislator look. ;)
November 6, 2008 1:17 PM | Reply | Permalink
Does your boyfriend know how you feel about Russ?
It's no secret to me -
November 6, 2008 1:19 PM | Reply | Permalink
Yep, he sure does, just gotta put up with it if you're gonna be with me. LOLs! Mostly it's in jest, but back when I was 14 and Russ was younger and just elected to the Senate, it was pretty true.
November 6, 2008 1:23 PM | Reply | Permalink
LOL
Just teasing you - I figured he had to know.
;)
November 6, 2008 1:31 PM | Reply | Permalink
Why do you think I live in Wisconsin? We grow 'em right up here :-)
November 6, 2008 1:35 PM | Reply | Permalink
Swarthy.
I always wanted a swarthy President.
When I was a younger man, people would ask, "What are you, Dem or Republican? Conservative or liberal? What is it, man, you seek in a President?" and I would always answer, "I want a swarthy President."
Swarthy.
November 6, 2008 1:26 PM | Reply | Permalink
Don't get me started -
Sorry there, Lars - Scandinavian men - not attractive.
Dark, swarthy men - o god.
November 6, 2008 1:29 PM | Reply | Permalink
What about freckled, Irish men?
November 6, 2008 1:37 PM | Reply | Permalink
Now why would you care?
rofl!
I love you, Joseph.
November 6, 2008 1:48 PM | Reply | Permalink
just being silly. :)
November 6, 2008 1:51 PM | Reply | Permalink
LOLOLOLOL!
Can I steal that line? :-D
November 6, 2008 1:30 PM | Reply | Permalink
"My ancestors were little people. Little, swarthy people."
-Jon Lovitz as Michael Dukakis, SNL 9/88
November 6, 2008 1:36 PM | Reply | Permalink
I am no fan of Emanuel- I am from Vermont and have been a Howard Dean follower. I think his 50 state strategy is genius and this election is the final word- total vindication! Just a few years after contesting and we are winning NC AND VA!!
However- what is the favorite media meme for Democrats? That we dither, are late, can't run a schedule, children in charge at the white house. I think Obama will need a COS that can make the trains run on time. I could see it working out. I don't think it is an emotional friendship type of pick, but he will be great for in house discipline. And with Obama being so incredibly appealing, you don't need a COS that everyone adores.
November 6, 2008 1:13 PM | Reply | Permalink
My understanding is that he had a hand in foisting Mahoney on the party to run for Foley's seat, and also fiddled around in the primary with the race that Duckworth lost to a netroots favorite.
Overall I think he took and got more credit than he deserved for the 2006 win, relative to Chairman Dean.
So I'm actually just as happy to have him out of Congress. Seems to make room for more Better Democrats (TM).
November 6, 2008 1:14 PM | Reply | Permalink
Yes indeedy. As did Chuck Schumer. Both of them were lauded by the political media as responsible for the 2006 rise. And if it had been left up to them, the Dems would have targeted the same 12+ seats they always seem to.
But I guess that's in the past. It's interesting how quickly that has been forgotten.
November 6, 2008 1:35 PM | Reply | Permalink
I guarantee you that Obama knows what he is doing. What's more interesting is to see how all the pieces will fit together.
November 6, 2008 1:15 PM | Reply | Permalink
Word straight to your mother.
I voted for him, I trust him, it's his staff, not mine - I'm just along for the ride.
November 6, 2008 1:17 PM | Reply | Permalink
Based on the statements by Boehnor and the RNC, it doesn't seem like the Republicans want to play nice. Can we get an update to include those statements, Greg?
November 6, 2008 1:17 PM | Reply | Permalink
If they're not going to play nice, then Rahm is looking like a better choice every second.
Kick ass and take names, Rahm.
November 6, 2008 1:18 PM | Reply | Permalink
By the way - where are reading statements from them? I know yesterday that Boehner got his undies in a twist over Rahm as COS- is that what you mean?
Boehner is going to have to untwist those undies all by himself - he's just hanging out there in thin air over the abyss. He is Tom Delay's hand-picked stooge and he's stupid and he's not doing what is left of the party any good.
November 6, 2008 1:24 PM | Reply | Permalink
Andrea Mitchell just had them on MSNBC. Even the Republican Strategist she had on (Vin Weber) apologized for them. I'll se if I can dig them up somewhere...unless Greg beats me to it.
November 6, 2008 1:29 PM | Reply | Permalink
This was part of Boehner's statement:
November 6, 2008 1:32 PM | Reply | Permalink
Blunt just walked the plank, and I think Boehner is not far behind.
If the Repugs don't like Rahm, all the more reason for us to like him.
Barack is the guy and he picks his staff.
November 6, 2008 1:40 PM | Reply | Permalink
Thanks - I was just curious. I'm sure that'll surface - don't knock yourself out.
I have a real aversion to Boehner.
November 6, 2008 1:33 PM | Reply | Permalink
Here's the statement from the RNC:
http://thepage.time.com/rnc-response-on-ap-story-about-emanuel-in-a-possible-obama-administration/
Assholes.
November 6, 2008 1:36 PM | Reply | Permalink
O now I know Rahm is the perfect choice.
November 6, 2008 1:40 PM | Reply | Permalink
Wasn't that statement made before the election?
November 6, 2008 1:46 PM | Reply | Permalink
Whoops...you're right...wrong link. I think this is the one from today:
http://thepage.time.com/rnc-memo-on-emanuel-choice/
November 6, 2008 2:46 PM | Reply | Permalink
They lost everything but now the Thuglicans are in their element: Destruction.
Emanuel is well suited to taking them on.
November 6, 2008 1:28 PM | Reply | Permalink
Word. Boehner, blah-blah,...
November 6, 2008 2:17 PM | Reply | Permalink
Look, the conventional inside the Beltway convention here is that Emanuel was a very good punch-thrower and WH aide for Clinton, a good punch-thrower and cattle-herder for Pelosi, but a mediocre as hell Representative.
His ideological leanings and bent are second to the fact that he plays it straight, plays it tough, and will kick you, excuse me, in the fucking balls if you try and cross the President (or the Speaker).
Presidents do better when their Chiefs have been tough mickey-fickeys.
This one, for sure, is no exception.
My biggest concern is that with Rahm it becomes a leak factory over at the WH. Obama needs to clamp down on that right away.
November 6, 2008 1:18 PM | Reply | Permalink
Obama will continue the "no drama, no leaks" practice from his campaign. I'm not worried. Like Tena said, I voted for him, I trust him. He's found his Leo/Josh.
November 6, 2008 1:39 PM | Reply | Permalink
The leak factory issue seems like a reasonable concern, given the chatter, etc, in the last 24 hours. I do not want to see that in the White House.
November 6, 2008 1:40 PM | Reply | Permalink
One of the most important things for Obama to do out of the gate is show strength and decisiveness. Emanuel will help him do that.
This is not about partisan politics, it is about having a trusted enforcer in the Whitehouse that knows how to navigate the terrain.
November 6, 2008 1:21 PM | Reply | Permalink
I completely agree with Nader. Millions of black Americans trust Obama to fight injustice. If he betrays that trust in order to satisfy his corporate donors, he is indeed an Uncle Tom. Nothing racist about that.
Also, you how condemn Nader for running against the two corporate parties, do you really believe in democracy, or just in the joke that is the two party system?
November 6, 2008 1:21 PM | Reply | Permalink
Nader's an egotistical, douchebag, who thinks he's better than everyone else. Just like Ventura and Barkley and pretty much every 3rd party spoiler, in the last 3 elections. All they do is get Republicans elected and ruin it for the rest of the country.
Nader can now fade into irrelevance for the next four years. I'm sure he'll be back, probably right along with Ventura and then the douchebaggery can start again.
November 6, 2008 1:31 PM | Reply | Permalink
Nader = epic fail
November 6, 2008 1:35 PM | Reply | Permalink
Hello?
Did you mistakenly land in this thread?
November 6, 2008 1:38 PM | Reply | Permalink
Could we perhaps give Obama at least a week before we call him incredibly offensive things? Thanks. OMGIDZ HE'S BEEN PREZNIT ELEKT FOR TWO DAYS AND THE WORLD STILL SUX!!!!!!!!!!
November 6, 2008 1:47 PM | Reply | Permalink
Er uh, go play in the traffic.
November 6, 2008 2:19 PM | Reply | Permalink
lol, wrong thread
November 6, 2008 1:22 PM | Reply | Permalink
You lost me right there.
November 6, 2008 1:26 PM | Reply | Permalink
Damn! I though we had our first authentic Nader troll. "How authentic," I thought, "for him to show up 6 months late."
November 6, 2008 2:12 PM | Reply | Permalink
Obama's well provisioned ship has just brought on board the biggest and hungriest rat of them all.
We know Obama knows that.
But so does the GOP. And they're starving.
November 6, 2008 1:23 PM | Reply | Permalink
Awww....the Obama's are making their first trip to DC on Monday. I can't WAIT to see those first photos of them at the WH!!!!!!!
November 6, 2008 1:27 PM | Reply | Permalink
O boy o boy o boy o boy!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I loves me some pictures of the First Family.
November 6, 2008 1:36 PM | Reply | Permalink
Besides, Leo McGarry was unavailable.
(pours a little out of the 40 for Leo)
Miss you, Leo.
November 6, 2008 1:29 PM | Reply | Permalink
On the subject of "West Wing", Rahm was supposedly the inspiration for Josh Lyman. Extra fun fact: his brother, agent Ari Emanuel, was supposedly the inspiration for Ari Gold in "Entourage"
November 6, 2008 1:41 PM | Reply | Permalink
I knew about the Josh thing, but I didn't know about Entourage. Those personality mixes must make for some interesting family get-togethers.
November 6, 2008 1:45 PM | Reply | Permalink
Ironic - I said yesterday that Rahm reminds me of Ari Gold.
And that's not a bad thing at all!
November 6, 2008 1:49 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm glad someone else brought this up. All I've been able to think about since the first Rahm as CoS leak last week was that this election really was turning into the last season of TWW. (Josh = Rahm, Santos = Obama, Vinick = McCain). I don't think Obama is going to make McCain his Secretary of State, though.
Wonder if Aaron Sorkin will get head of FCC?
November 6, 2008 6:13 PM | Reply | Permalink
sniff.
November 6, 2008 1:47 PM | Reply | Permalink
Meanwhile, to see how this pick is playing out among the totally unhinged, see NoQuarter, wherein we learn that this is yet another instance of the Democratic party's vile misogyny. I must say, while I have certain reservations about Emmanuel, I find it reassuring that he makes Larry Johnson foam at the mouth so.
November 6, 2008 1:34 PM | Reply | Permalink
What's the problem? Do they expect Obama to clone Hillary 30 times over and only have a staff of Hillarys running things?
Until Larry Johnson grows a uterus, I'd prefer that he not lecture me on what is or isn't misogyny.
November 6, 2008 1:42 PM | Reply | Permalink
Yes.
November 6, 2008 1:48 PM | Reply | Permalink
It's okay. I'm pretty sure Larry Johnson's got Rahm on tape saying "Whitey."
November 6, 2008 1:53 PM | Reply | Permalink
That convinced me - that and Boehner and the general sourness of the RNC over Rahm.
I likes it. Now they know - when Obama says he will work with them, that doesn't mean he'll be subject to pressure or that he'll just bend over for them.
November 6, 2008 1:42 PM | Reply | Permalink
I think Boehner's press release says more about him than Emanuel. That is one bitter SOB.
I think the House Republicans are going to drift farther and farther in to crazy land. There isn't going to be much bipartisanship in the house if Boehner has anything to say about it.
Question, do Republicans ever hold themselves accountable when they fail?
November 6, 2008 2:01 PM | Reply | Permalink
Bang heads together...and DANCE:
From Wikipedia:
November 6, 2008 1:43 PM | Reply | Permalink
Seriously? Sarah Lawrence?
November 6, 2008 1:48 PM | Reply | Permalink
I know - a hoot, innit?
What a background.
November 6, 2008 1:51 PM | Reply | Permalink
Since Rahm was the model for Josh Lyman, this story was probably the inspiration for the West Wing bit where Josh tells Sam that he wanted to be a dancer when he was little, then asks Sam to keep that quiet and Sam says "Not a chance." Of course later in the episode, Bartlet gives Josh grief about it ("A ballerina, Josh?" I think is how it went).
November 6, 2008 1:50 PM | Reply | Permalink
A possible MOLE? I hope Obama won't be sorry for allowing this.
November 6, 2008 1:44 PM | Reply | Permalink
A MOLE for whom? And what's with the word "allow"? That implies that someone is forcing this on him. If you have something to say....say it.
November 6, 2008 1:49 PM | Reply | Permalink
The idea that anyone can force anything on Barack Obama blows my mind.
It's obvious to me that a lot of people still underestimate the president.
Barack Obama is about healing the country and unity, but he doesn't do pressure. If he did, Hillary Clinton would be VP.
This is not a weak man - my god. How could a weak man have accomplished this?
The GOP is in for one rough ride if this how they think they can act and get away with it. And so is anyone in the Democratic Party who thinks he or she is going to make waves.
November 6, 2008 1:54 PM | Reply | Permalink
Totally agree. I can't imagine Obama being manipulated in any way, shape, or form. I think his detractors are sorely underestimating him....they shouldn't mistake his calmess or his contemplative nature as weakness.
November 6, 2008 2:55 PM | Reply | Permalink
I didn't like Rahm much as caucus leader, but people need to understand that COS is not a policy-making position, it's about doing what's needed to execute the PRESIDENT's policy. You've got to have someone who thoroughly understands how both ends of Penn. Ave. work and who is tough enough to run a tight ship. Rahm is perfect on all those counts. Think back to how much time and momentum the brand-new Clinton White House lost in considerable part because of the ineffectiveness of Mack McClarty.
November 6, 2008 1:47 PM | Reply | Permalink
First Biden, now Emanuel. I can't say that I'm impressed. Well, actually, with this pattern, I'm getting a bit concerned.
November 6, 2008 1:54 PM | Reply | Permalink
You even admitted it. Silly - number one rule for concern trolls - don't admit you're concerned. Call it something else - Jebus!
November 6, 2008 1:55 PM | Reply | Permalink
I am not concerned at all. Rhambo knows how to keep Democrats in line. He is an executioner that knows how to get down dirty with the Republican when neccessary.
Republican are scared to death right now. Their worst nightmare just came to past.
He is a smart ass and a strategic thinker. After 3 years as chief of staff, i am pretty sure he will be back in the house as speaker or Governor of Illinois.
November 6, 2008 2:07 PM | Reply | Permalink
Well, choosing the son of a Jerusalem-born, former member of the Irgun will make my task of convincing people in my Jewish orthodox community that Obama isn't going to bomb Israel at the end of January.
OTOH, they'll no doubt figure out a way to suggest that this pick only makes that more likely ("Hey, all my friends - even my CoS - is Jewish!")...Gevalt.
November 6, 2008 1:56 PM | Reply | Permalink
I like the two decision that Obama made so far. Let the Rhambo keep his eyes on House while the elder stateman, Biden, keep his eyes on Senate.
Folks, this is a good combination. Obama can, now, focus on repairing our image abroad. I like the selection. I am waiting for Secretary of Treasury and State. I prefered Alex Goldsbee for treasury and Richardson for secretary of State.
November 6, 2008 2:02 PM | Reply | Permalink
For Treasury I'm rooting for Sheila Bair, the current and highly effective FDIC chair. She is a tough regulator and, unlike the Summers / Rubin crowd, free from any complicity in the policies that led to the meltdown.
November 6, 2008 2:09 PM | Reply | Permalink
I second that motion... i don't like the, larry summer, guy at all. He is too arrogant for my likening. He is an imperialist with a ruthless reputation in world bank.
November 6, 2008 2:14 PM | Reply | Permalink
I have to think the safest bet of all of Obama's cabinet picks will be General James Jones as Secretary of State. He loves the general, dropping his name as a VP candidate and singled him out during the last debate as a foreign policy advisor. Jones is the perfect pick, he is adored by both Democrats and Republicans and would bring tremendous gravitas to the position. Plus he twice turned down Condi's offer to be her top deputy and serves as envoy to the Middle East so he is very familiar with the State Department.
November 6, 2008 2:12 PM | Reply | Permalink
If it works for Obama, to keep the General, that is fine by me. My hunch tells me Obama is going to appoint someone with Pragmatic view to the state department.
Richardson, Sebellius, Authur Davis, Deval Patrick, Clara McCaskill and Napolitano should be consider for Energy, Commerce, Justice Department, Homeland Security, and Supreme Court judge.
These guys have been with Obama since the Primary. They are competent individual. I specifically like Clara McCaskill for Secretary of Agriculture. She is a tough cookie that knows how to get things done.
November 6, 2008 2:23 PM | Reply | Permalink
Jones is not part of the Bush administration so Obama would not "keep" him. In fact Jones was very vocal against Rumsfeld and crew. Here is a good article about the general. I guarantee you this will be the pick.
http://online.wsj.com/public/article/SB117729466180378622-EfRd3v5nBv3QBfi5cUh2mSLhH7U_20080422.html?mod=tff_main_tff_top
November 6, 2008 2:35 PM | Reply | Permalink
As echoed above- as long as Rahm keeps his yapper shut and doesn't leak info, I love the choice.
Now we just need Axelrod as chief policy advisor to maintain the "no drama, only effectiveness" theme.
I trust Obama on this- Rahm throws elbows with the best of them, and will force the Congress to accept Obama's plans, be they liberal, moderate or conservative.
November 6, 2008 2:11 PM | Reply | Permalink
It all depends on what role he wants his CoS to play. Frankly I wonder if this is more about keeping the *Democratic* congress in line. Rahm can definitely go toe to toe with Pelosi or Reid.
November 6, 2008 2:14 PM | Reply | Permalink
Bingo. The Rethugs in the House are irrelevant- screw them. (In the Senate we'll need to pick off a few of the squishy ones for cloture votes, but I'm not worried- the survivors among the relatively moderate Senate Republicans know how to read election returns.) So herding the Democratic cats will be the real challenge.
November 6, 2008 2:18 PM | Reply | Permalink
I think you've got it, BBpdx. This position is about keeping *Obama's* staff in line, effective and productive (and quiet), and about leaning on Congressional *Democrats*. A more conciliatory negotiator would be appropriate for working with the Republicans.
Having said that, there is certainly negotiation and making-nice to be done with the Democrats; Obama can't just send in the enforcer to try to push them around. That was a lot of the problem that Carter had. He came in all outsider-ish, and thought he could get more out of the Democrat-controlled Congress than they were willing to give. Emanuel sounds like a total asshole, but he's an *insider* asshole.
November 6, 2008 2:30 PM | Reply | Permalink
Axelrod should be by Obama side all the way. We need to keep the Hope & Change meme going. David Plouffe should be the political director in the white house.
I am pretty sure he will like the job. He should be in charge of executing 2010 congressional election.
November 6, 2008 2:16 PM | Reply | Permalink
Axelrod is not going to move to Washington. He'll resume his distinguished career of helping elect good Democrats, especially African-Americans, as governors, mayors and Senators. And he's certainly not likely to lack for clients now! Of course, he'll still be only a phone call away if the President wants his advice.
November 6, 2008 2:20 PM | Reply | Permalink
Just saw a report that says I'm wrong about Axelrod not joining the White House staff. Which is great news.
November 6, 2008 3:01 PM | Reply | Permalink
I read a few days back that Axelrod was interested in a staff position and Halperin's reporting that he's just accepted a position as a Sr. Advisor. It is Halperin, though...
November 6, 2008 3:02 PM | Reply | Permalink
Guess his family was okay with moving to D.C.
November 6, 2008 2:21 PM | Reply | Permalink
Well, Chicago and Washington are both great towns (I've lived in the first and often visited the second). How can you go wrong? ;)
November 6, 2008 2:24 PM | Reply | Permalink
From Wiki on Emanuel:
"... Emanuel is said to have "mailed a rotting fish to a former coworker after the two parted ways."[7] On the night after the 1996 election, "Emanuel was so angry at the president's enemies that he stood up at a celebratory dinner with colleagues from the campaign, grabbed a steak knife and began rattling off a list of betrayers, shouting 'Dead! ... Dead! ... Dead!' and plunging the knife into the table after every name."[2] His "take-no-prisoners attitude" earned him the nickname "Rahm-bo"...."
Brilliant, just brilliant.
November 6, 2008 2:24 PM | Reply | Permalink
Since you guys brought up Boehner, can anyone tell me how anybody from Ohio can get a tan like that?
Not in the Ohio I live in, and not working for the people.
November 6, 2008 2:50 PM | Reply | Permalink
Ok, I need to flesh this out more, but here is my theory on Obama's plan here, which likely started with his pick of Joe Biden. Obama has stated in the past that he opposes both change by a Unitary Executive and change by judicial fiat. He prefers the more lasting change of law. So he picks Biden to work the Senate, and Rahm to work the house. At the same time he appears to favor people like Gates and Summers, who are very establishment, to be placed in those key positions.
Why? What's he going for? My theory is that he wants to stabilize the Iraq debate and the credit crisis debate by not making moves on those issues right off the bat (ala Clinton getting suckered into addressing gays in the military) and making very slow moves on those fronts. All of this is actually geared toward enacting some piece of major legislation that the public will get behind and will allow him to score a quick victory.
So my guess is that his first major action will be an energy bill, couched as a jobs bill, a stimulus plan, an answer to high gas prices, a national defense plan, and a global warming response all wrapped in one package.
Sound plausible? If so, watch for his picks on energy/environment related issues as well as legislative issues, while picking subdued figures for all other posts.
November 6, 2008 2:58 PM | Reply | Permalink
Statement by Lindsay Graham:
http://marcambinder.theatlantic.com/archives/2008/11/lindsey_graham_praises_emanuel.php
Sounds like he's trying to make nice...
November 6, 2008 3:05 PM | Reply | Permalink
unabogie said:
"...while picking subdued figures for all other posts...."
I'm dying to see who he picks for Attorney General. I hate to admit it, but one Republican comes to mind-- James Comey. I hope Obama picks a pitbull, though, not subdued. Kerry wouldn't be bad, I suppose.
',,,while picking subdued figures for all other posts.
November 6, 2008 3:53 PM | Reply | Permalink
Statement from President-Elect Barack Obama and Congressman and future White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel - http://marcambinder.theatlantic.com/archives/2008/11/its_official_rahm.php
Snippet from Emanuel statement-
November 6, 2008 3:59 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm fine with this. For me, the plus side of Emanuel is he's very effective and knows how to get things done -- exactly what you need in a CoS. The down side is his DLC tendencies and hostility to the Dean approach. But that side is more likely to be maximized in a House leadership position -- where he's helping to set policy -- and minimized in the White House where he'll the implementer of the Obama agenda.
Besides, Obama has shown great judgment with his past personnel decisions and should get the benefit of the doubt until proven otherwise.
November 6, 2008 4:02 PM | Reply | Permalink
The only real problem with all of this was the Rahm Agonistes nature of the last 24-hours. The well-oiled Obama machine managed to avoid looking "not ready for prime time" for the last 21+ months. I suppose they're entitled to a hickup, but one hopes that Rahm keeps his antacids handy from here on out.
November 6, 2008 4:55 PM | Reply | Permalink
Nah, this was all deliberate. The leaking was meant to get all the Republican angst out of the way before the decision was made "officially."
The NYT piece on Rahm went out of its way to source its leak - a Republican confidante of Rahm's with whom he had been discussing the "difficult decision."
The whole thing has been about shifting perception from "Rahmbo" to a more Obama-friendly "bipartisan happy warrior" type. They needed more than one news cycle to do that! It wasn't a drama queen move, it was a roll-out.
November 6, 2008 6:25 PM | Reply | Permalink
Obama used Dr. Dean's strategy to build his vision. He will use Rahms to keep his majority. Both men had valid points, and we need both voices in the party.
Over the last few years, rather than fight to be "top Democrat", Dr. Dean focused on motivating the progressive base, and adding blue to the whole country. Without his genius, Obama would have had a much harder time. Rahm is part of the DLC faction, and Clinton player, he will move the House Factions and the Clinton Factions into backing Obama, making Obama even harder to resist on the ground.
Rahm is tough, smart, and one hell of a fighter. He may not be as progressive as some, but with him on your side, stuff will get done. Obama is not going to show up in Congress with a briefcase full of ideas and no boots for kicking ass....he will have both.
November 6, 2008 7:51 PM | Reply | Permalink
wrprintz said:
"...Rahm is part of the DLC faction, and Clinton player, he will move the House Factions and the Clinton Factions into backing Obama, making Obama even harder to resist on the ground...."
Or....he will move Obama into backing the Clinton faction's positions. I'm beginning to feel like this is cabbage that's already been chewed once, and we're being asked to chew it once again. I'm still not convinced that Emanuel's volatility is what that position needs. Apparently, from what I read, his style doesn't enhance loyalty. We'll see when and if the leaks begin whether he was the right person for that particular position.
November 6, 2008 10:57 PM | Reply | Permalink
Play rough with congress????
After what Jimmy Carter did to himself (along with Hannibal Jergen) when he took over in '77??
Carter also vented his spleen in regards to his opinion of Ted Kennedy. It was all downhill from there.
Obama's calling Nancy Reagon to smooth things over today was encouraging. But I'll never forget the expression on her face in her initial interview with Mike Wallace after moving into the White House. It was a sort of tough question that he asked her. I think that it was about the china, but I'll never forget the reaction on her face: an "I think I'm going to need some Ex-Lax" sort of look.
November 8, 2008 1:18 AM | Reply | Permalink