Hillary's Best Incarnation Yet (Hail to the Community Organizer-in-Chief!)

This column first appeared on HuffingtonPost.com.  Comments not included here.

by Beth Arnold

I watched Obama's press conference announcing his National Security team yesterday, and I was struck by our president-elect's team-building skills. Hillary Clinton was warmly and honorably named to one of the most prestigious appointments in his cabinet, but she wasn't singled out with the genuflecting the Clintons had come to expect--and she didn't project that arrogance. On yesterday's stage, Hillary had become part of Obama's inclusive and what-seemed-like-already-jelled team. Plus, in a moment of what I hope proves to be an inspired choice for Secretary of State, he gave the Clintons a lesson in generosity and class. I was caught up in the vibe that the good of our country was supremely being served; more than that, the good of the world was being fashioned right in front of our very eyes.

Barack Obama ran an inspired and brilliant presidential campaign. I never lost faith with his strategy or choices then, and I'm trusting that he's made all the right appointments now. Every single member of his new team was sending out that energy--team energy--in his or her body language, mannerisms, facial expressions, and in their entire comportment, while Obama was unequivocally the man in charge.

All the critics who made fun of Obama's community organizing experience (Sarah Palin, are you listening?) were toothless wonders. That hard-won experience is going to help him successfully organize the community of the world.

Comments

[Ellen Kennon]

Well said Beth! Of course, you are always right on!

[Beth Arnold]

Hey, thanks. Some people--including progressives--are complaining about Obama's choices. And the talking heads have to have something to pick apart to keep talking.

Obama ran a near perfect campaign with an incredible team he assembled, and I've made a choice to support his strategy--until I have a reason not to. Hillary's new attitude was a visual cue that they all may step up to their jobs and careers with an expanded consciousness. We could see them give us their best work.

[Kevin O'Toole]

I entirely agree with your comments, Beth. He is building a great team which, hopefully, will steer the US and the world away from the nightmare of the Bush years.

Happy Christmas et bonne chance en 2009!