Practice democratic principles - part b

In light of the recent election and current interest in the individuals that President-Elect has chosen to include in his cabinet, I have chosen to critically examine his cabinet thus far, paying attention mainly to gender, racial identity, and age. The likelihood that an openly same-sex oriented individual would be selected seems to be quite low, at least in my opinion. There would be other groups that would traditionally lack representation in positions of power.

First of all, I am tremendously excited about the appointment of Hilary Clinton to the position of Secretary of State. To have two consecutive women in such a powerful position is perhaps indicative of our country's willingness to accept well-qualified women for these kinds of jobs. While most Democrats have gotten over their bitterness following Obama's nomination as the Democratic candidate, I think that this is still a good move that may help to increase party unity.

Only three posts, as of this point, will be filled by white males. Personally I find this to be rather impressive. I do not know much about Robert Gates, who will remain in his post of Defense Secretary when the Bush administration vacates office in January. Treasury secretary, Timothy Geithner appears to be a good choice based on his experience and knowledge of the bailout. Tom Daschle, Health Secretary, while he has extensive experience as a House Representative, I'm not sure of his qualifications for the position of Health Secretary.

The remaining four posts will be held by a woman, a racial minority, or both. African-American, Eric Holder, will serve as the first African-American Attorney General, after also serving in the Clinton administration. Janet Napolitano was chosen for the position of Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, given her experience on immigration as Governor of New Mexico. While her appointment to this position is of course notable, unfortunately Pennsylvania governor, Ed Rendell, belittled this achievement by saying that she is perfect for the job since she has no family, thus she has no life. As if the only measure of someone's life is whether or not they have a family. African-American Susan Rice will occupy the position of UN Ambassador after working in the Clinton administration for a few years as the youngest assistant secretary of state. After running for the Democratic nomination, Latino Bill Richardson will join Obama's cabinet as Commerce Secretary. Announced this week, Steven Chu, of Chinese background, was nominated to the post of Secretary of Energy. Chu is known for his work with alternative energy and global climate change.

Given the diversity of our nation, I think that it is only appropriate for the leadership to reflect the population. Of course a better job could always be done, but I think that this cabinet is looking pretty good.

Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/us_elections_2008/7716467.stm