Thursday, November 6, 2008

Rahm Emanuel is Obama's Chief of Staff

Rahm Emanuel has accepted the post of chief of staff in the Obama administration. That works for me. Choosing him, particularly so quickly, sends the message that Obama will be willing to play hardball. Emanuel is known both for his ability to get things done, and for his willingness to bang heads when necessary.


I am particularly encouraged by the comparison with Bill Clinton's first chief of staff, Thomas McLarty. I remember when Clinton announced that he had chosen him - Clinton mentioned that they had been in the same kindergarten class. That's touching, but it isn't a great qualification to be chief of staff in the White House. McLarty only lasted until 1994, replaced by Leon Panetta.

I'm happy with Emanuel. It's clear that Obama had been planning this for a long time. So far, so good.

No comments: