June 10, 2007
Posted: 10:50 AM ET

Former secretary of state Colin Powell

WASHINGTON (AP) — Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama has sought out former Secretary of State Colin Powell for advice on foreign policy matters.

While Powell served in the administrations of two Republican presidents, he said Sunday it was too early in the 2008 race to say whether he would back the GOP nominee.

"I'm going to support the best person that I can find who will lead this country for the eight years beginning in January of 2009," Powell said.

Powell was secretary of state under President Bush and Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman for the first President Bush.

Powell said he has met twice with Obama, the Illinois senator. "I've been around this town a long time and I know everybody who is running for office. And I make myself available to talk about foreign policy matters and military matters with whoever wishes to chat with me," Powell said.

Powell said he does not want to serve in elected office but was less certain about a return to some government post.

"I would not rule it out. I am not at all interested in political life if you mean elected political life. That is unchanged. But I always keep my eyes open and my ears open to requests for service," he said.

He was interviewed on "Meet the Press" on NBC.

Filed under: Barack Obama • Race to '08


Robert M. Reidy, Tillson, N.Y.   June 10th, 2007 1:55 pm ET

I am inspired to see how many good people are attracted to Barak Obama. Even the republican spinners are impressed by his vision and style and intelligence. I believe we are getting a view into the exciting future that will attract the best and brightest to an Obama White House. A world class leader with vision and positive energy is just what the world is yearning to get behind.

marie   June 10th, 2007 8:35 pm ET

Nice to know he will stand by the best guy for the job no matter what party they belong to.

Kyu Reisch, Radcliff, Kentucky   June 10th, 2007 9:27 pm ET

It is strange thing happened. Why suddenly Powell advise Obama? He said I am going to support the best person that I can find who will lead this country for the eight years….No it is not true. What kind of nonsense is this? Actually he changed his party to Democrats? It is betrayed and lied to Americans because Obama is not the best person who will lead this country. Obama has no experiences and just chicken politican that's why he needs Powell's advises. I heard that Powell was scared to kill so didn't run the President in the past, if so Powell should stop Obama to run, but now he is going to use Obama, role the job behind of Obama? What a clever dream. If you are so good with foreign policy why don't you help your own Party's candidates? Dirty trick began. It will be very dangerous plan for our Country. I knew Powell was very crafty person long time ago even people said he is good, now he showed his intrinsic nature. Shameful, shameful and shameful.

Tal Williams   June 11th, 2007 12:31 pm ET

Why isn't this man running for President? Colin would be the best candidate for America. He understands the world situation, is well respected around the world, and is probably the most honorable man I have ever met.

James, Raleigh, North Carolina   June 11th, 2007 4:18 pm ET

Since he does not want to be President,I would like to see Powell as someone's Vice President. If not that,perhaps he could be Secretary Of Defense or placed in charge of Homeland Security. He's a good man who was caught in a bad situation as Secretary of State.

Robert Mitchell Colorado Springs Co   June 11th, 2007 4:20 pm ET

Mr Powell would add a significant and positive effect on the Obama/Powell ticket. Mr Powell has no wishes for President, but has not, to my knowledge, discounted the VP. I like Obama, but his weakness is inexperience. Mr Powell would and should be Mr Obama's advisor if not his VP, to give this country a fresh start whom everyone likes and has experience on hand.

TA Chtown PEI CANADA   June 11th, 2007 11:06 pm ET

Powell is an honest man who many respect and trust. He has credibility which is seriosly lacking in this administration. Internationally he could lead America in the right direction. Unfortunate he isn't seeking a Political position but I can understand anyone's hesitation with the current state of the world.

I knew when he left the White House Bush was in serious trouble. I dont' believe Colin Powell would serve in any political arena without the full confidence and trust of his cabinet and associates.

Damian, Washington DC   June 12th, 2007 11:38 am ET

He needs to be running for President!!!

Comments have been closed for this article

subscribe RSS Icon
About The Ticker

The latest political news from CNN's Best Political Team, with campaign coverage, 24-7. Sign up for our twice daily Ticker emails. Got a news tip or feedback? For complete political coverage, bookmark CNNPolitics.com.

CNN=Politics Screensaver

CNN=Politics ScreensaverTap into the power of The Situation Room. Download this powerful new tool that keeps you posted on the latest political news from the campaign trail.
Download (4.1 MB, PC only)

Follow us on Twitter

CNN on TwitterGet Ticker updates the moment they appear online via the Web, SMS, or instant messages.
Follow politicalticker

Categories
CNN Comment Policy: CNN encourages you to add a comment to this discussion. You may not post any unlawful, threatening, libelous, defamatory, obscene, pornographic or other material that would violate the law. Please note that CNN makes reasonable efforts to review all comments prior to posting and CNN may edit comments for clarity or to keep out questionable or off-topic material. All comments should be relevant to the post and remain respectful of other authors and commenters. By submitting your comment, you hereby give CNN the right, but not the obligation, to post, air, edit, exhibit, telecast, cablecast, webcast, re-use, publish, reproduce, use, license, print, distribute or otherwise use your comment(s) and accompanying personal identifying information via all forms of media now known or hereafter devised, worldwide, in perpetuity. CNN Privacy Statement.
Home  |  World  |  U.S.  |  Politics  |  Entertainment  |  Health  |  Tech  |  Travel  |  Living  |  Business  |  Sports  |  Time.com
Podcasts  |  Blogs  |  CNN Mobile  |  Preferences |  Email Alerts  |  CNN Radio  |  CNN Shop  |  Site Map
© 2008 Cable News Network LP, LLLP. A Time Warner Company. All Rights Reserved.
Powered by WordPress.com