November 14, 2008
Posted: 07:25 PM ET

From

(CNN) — CNN has learned that President-elect Barack Obama spoke with New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson Friday to discuss the post of Secretary of State. A senior Democratic source tells CNN that Richardson’s name has always been on Obama’s list for that post. Obama has also gauged Sen. Hillary Clinton’s interest in the post if she were offered it. If Clinton does not express interest in the post, then Richardson and others would be candidates for the job.

Another source close to the Obama transition team tells CNN that among the key details to be worked out with Sen. Clinton, should she express interest in the position, are issues of how her husband, former President Bill Clinton would be able to continue his work with the Clinton Global Initiative without complicating her work as Secretary of State.

Filed under: Barack Obama • Bill Richardson • Obama transition


JNC, California   November 15th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

To Hal, I like that idea of Condi staying as S.o.S That would definately good for the country although I don't think she would want it…She looks tired! As for Richardson, he would be great in another position like S.o.I give Clinton something pertaining to HHS. I think Clinton would still try and be sneaky, but between those two (Richardson). Barack will make a good decision regardless!!!

kim   November 15th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Great, don't want Hillary on the train wreck that looms for the O administration, she needs to stay far away, let the idiots that backed him go down with him.

J   November 15th, 2008 11:21 am ET

Both Clinton and Richardson are excellent choices and would do a superb job. I lean toward Hillary for the position, but that's mainly my bias as an ardent supporter of hers.

Below The Beltway » Blog Archive » Obama Talks To Bill Richardson About Secretary Of State   November 15th, 2008 5:51 am ET

[...] looks like the President-Elect is keeping his options open: CNN has learned that President-elect Barack Obama spoke with New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson Friday [...]

Desiree   November 15th, 2008 12:34 am ET

Ok. All of you people who are painting Bill Richardson as a horrible person are, well, to put it bluntly, stupid. He actually has experience in this job, and he doesn't just "deserve" it like many of you Hillary fanatics seem to think. Not that she's not capable, though. If you haven't seen Obama and Richardson together, they really do have great chemistry. The chemistry between Obama and Hillary doesn't even compare. So many of you are also bitter that Obama picked Biden over Hillary. Do you really think she wants to be No. 2 and not No. 1? They don't get along, and Hillary is too prideful (not in a bad way), and them working together closely may never happen. Sorry. End of discussion.

Eyes wide open   November 15th, 2008 12:34 am ET

Look up Richardson's background. He would be an excellent SoS.

Sadly, Hillary couldn't even negotiate peace within her own campaign staff She is too divisive and bullheaded to lead the Dept. of State. Put her drive and focus to work elsewhere.

Dan, FL   November 15th, 2008 12:30 am ET

GA for Obama. I am entitled to my opinion. I do not need you to lecture me. Government is going to support you but not me. I am working hard to make my living. Barack is socialist. Get a life.

Helen, VT   November 15th, 2008 12:24 am ET

I was going through the blogs here. Peter(CA) seems to be spilling venom here. He is living in the liberal California. Nanci Pelosi's state. He is asking us why we are criticising Barack Obama. He should know that this country is at centre-right and we expect our leaders including barack to govern from there. We do not need far-left loonies to govern us. We have them here in VT too.

ElderLS   November 15th, 2008 12:21 am ET

Ohhh one more thing…it's time to move on from the name calling. Grow up, only children should act like children!!!

G   November 15th, 2008 12:20 am ET

Looks like Clinton will get the job unless she says no and in that case Richarson could be the choice. I think either choice is fine with me they are both good candidates for the job. It is now up to Clinton and whether or not she will say no I don't think the Obama administration will be offering the job if they did not want her to take it. So good for him working with everyone even if they don't agree with him all the time.

Dylan, Los Angeles   November 15th, 2008 12:18 am ET

Richardson is a solid choice. Please don't forget about Mike Gravel for some other position.

Anna   November 15th, 2008 12:03 am ET

Lauren:
the Clintons Made Bill Richardson.

If it wasnt for the Clintons, you would have a Bill Richardson to be excited about.

Learn the Past before you talk Change.

Lauren   November 15th, 2008 12:03 am ET

If you are a PA Democrat who voted for McCain then #1. Your are the Judas and #2. Who cares what you want? Not I!

Anna   November 14th, 2008 11:57 pm ET

Jacked up Florida?

there is a lot more at stake for Hillary than Obama.

She would be forfeiting a near certain lifelong Senate career, where she could do a lot of good for her State, and perhaps again run for the office of the Presidency on her own merit.

If she accepted the job, She would be banking on the success of the Obama Administration to secure any future hope of running for public office again. I am not dooming him, but anything can happen in this world, lets face it.
And there is the Conflict of Interest issue which both Clinton and Obama need to be concerned with.

I am happy that he is considering her for this. I hope it isnt just for show, knowing she has to say no.

30-m-PA-Democrat-voted McCain   November 14th, 2008 11:55 pm ET

Boo. We want Hillary, not Judas.

Angela -Carle Place NY   November 14th, 2008 11:48 pm ET

Hillary Clinton would be brilliant at this position, and Obama would be a fool to pick Richardson. I never got over the fact that he threw her uner the bus for his own political career, so I say yes, yes yes! She is an exceptional politican and would make Obama look good.. So I say go for it President Obama.. Choose Hillary… And if he picks RIcharson or Kerry, I will be very pissed. She earned it and deserves the post!

CMJ   November 14th, 2008 11:47 pm ET

Either one would be fine with me.

luz   November 14th, 2008 11:40 pm ET

makes me want to puke that this opportunist is considered by obama. he is clearly being considered as a political favor.

Eleanor   November 14th, 2008 11:39 pm ET

Everyone should give president elect Barack Obama a chance to be inaugurated and lead the nation, and select his cabinet,
before you start judging him and his message of change
He has to pick the best people for the job and he is trying to be fair
looking at democrats and republicans for all choices
I believe there are about 15 cabinet members or so
Hillary would be great for the job and so would Bill Richardson
look up his resume
He has impressive foreign experience
he could also be offered homeland security or something

J.C.   November 14th, 2008 11:38 pm ET

I am really surprised by some still calling Governor Richardson Judas even after the election is over. This is the reason why George Washington was fiercely against partisan politics. Aren't we supposed to be loyal to our country before the party? Now both GOP and RNC can't contain their fighting in and outside the party. When can we work as a nation called United States of America for a change?

3strikes   November 14th, 2008 11:36 pm ET

the so called judas to the false messiah? hahaha, this new admin is goin to be a circus

GA resident   November 14th, 2008 11:32 pm ET

The voters have spoken. We have elected Barack Obama the President of the United States. It was our job to pick the President, and now it is his job to make a decision on who he wants for his cabinet.

Yes, we all have opinion, but the reality is that he is the President Elect and he is the one who needs a team that will carry out his agenda.

Lot of people in this blog are saying, "This is not change". To me, this statement is outrageous almost. The job of the cabinet secretaries is to advise the President on their particular areas and then carry out the President's agenda. These secretaries do not need to be the names that we have never heard before, but they need to be the best in their area while considering that regardless of what their own opinion is, the President's decision is the last word.

My last advise – don't make this harder than it already is for President Elect. We have big challenges and to fight about what we individually THINK about a cabinet position is simply a distraction to what could be the most effective government of our lifetime in first 100 days of Obama Presidency starting Jan 20th.

phil   November 14th, 2008 11:30 pm ET

I thought health care was most dear to Hillary Clinton's heart. Why is she
now intreasted in the Secretary of Stare post .

Independent Fred   November 14th, 2008 11:10 pm ET

Some of you really need to grow up…

You Democrats have the world at your finger tips and yet still cry about Richardson supporting Obama..Conversely you applaud Powell for jumping GOP ship to suppor Obama calling him a visionary..

So which is it you can't have it both ways kids?

Richardson supported who he thought was best…PERIOD..get over it already..

JACKED-UP-POLITICS, FLORIDA   November 14th, 2008 11:08 pm ET

Look I really like the Clintons but our economy is at STAKE as if she did not notice and she is playing "I SCRATCH YOUR BACK POLITCS." This is the very thing that American voted against and sent a clear message when they did not elect McCain/Palin's ticket.

As Americans we have a job to demand excellance of our elected officials whether they are Dems or Repubs. Clinton needs to make up her mind or Obama just needs to move on. Enough already with CATERING POLITICS. I'M SICK OF IT. GOOD RIDANCE

Mia   November 14th, 2008 11:06 pm ET

Loyalty's one thing – but look where it got your current President. He valued it so highly he surrounded himself with complete incompetence. There are more important things. I think Richardson is almost overqualified for the post, and would work better there than Hillary.

RON   November 14th, 2008 11:04 pm ET

I think that Hillary is just like any other polition that want to have power…

Ted:Canada   November 14th, 2008 11:03 pm ET

Canada was RIGHT about Obama! – for Pres

Canada is RIGHT about Hillary! – for SOS

the rest of you calm down!

go to bed it is friday night!

Bruce   November 14th, 2008 11:02 pm ET

Talk about pork barrels, this sounds like a set deal in exchange for the late support provided bty Slick Willie and HealthCare Hillary. Same Old Same Old. Nothing changes.

Dexter Skagway   November 14th, 2008 10:56 pm ET

Meet the new boss, same as the old boss. I am starting to feel betrayed and disillusioned, Obama. These people are NOT change. They may better that the hell of Bush/Cheney/Rove, but they are definitely not fresh faces with fresh ideas and approaches. These people are not about change; they represent the moldy oldie Democratic approach, not innovation and creativity. Well, at least Guantanamo will get closed.

joe   November 14th, 2008 10:53 pm ET

Richardson GOD LOVE YOU! AND
I LOVE YOU TOO, YOU ARE A MAN OF HONESTY WITH ETHICS AND MORALITY.
KEEP UP GOOD WORK , THE WORLD NEEDS YOU FOR PEACE WITHOUT FEAR OR FAVOUR!

josj   November 14th, 2008 10:52 pm ET

no judas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! hillary yesssssssssssss

Ecor   November 14th, 2008 10:49 pm ET

HEW was my suspect for her cabinet position, if any.

Dee   November 14th, 2008 10:45 pm ET

Hillary is the best choice for Secretary of State. Would have made the best president, too.

josj   November 14th, 2008 10:44 pm ET

she would be great, richardson sucks

David Stein   November 14th, 2008 10:38 pm ET

I hate to say it but I don't fully trust Hillary Clinton. Sure, she'd be good but she might, just out of spite, sabotage Obama. There's too much at stake, no, Obama don't do it.

tess   November 14th, 2008 10:35 pm ET

boy,now this is change we can NOT believe in as with everything else the clintons say! just what we need – three people competing for who is really the president – my money is on {in order} bill ,hillary and last o'bama!

Paul   November 14th, 2008 10:34 pm ET

If all of can expand your memory Gov. Richardson was one of the best foreign relations people we've had in a long, long, time. Remember, he went to Iran and left with those hostages unscathed. He has earned a ton of respect from leaders all around the world. He is very qualified. I'm from NM and believe he was a better S of energy than he is a gov. This is his strongest point.

Emily   November 14th, 2008 10:31 pm ET

Bill Richardson is where he is today because of the Clintons, and when he saw a way to further his agenda, he turned on them and started courting Obama. He will hang Obama out to dry to further his next agenda. Leave him out of this administration. He has NO LOYALTY.

J.C.   November 14th, 2008 10:24 pm ET

Why is the secretary of state job offered to a less qualified Hillary before it's offered to a seasoned diplomat Richardson?

Neither Ireland nor Bosnia had agreed with Hillary's claim of her forging peace in these two wars. The Clinton's foreign policy with Russia was such a failure that Putin rose to power. Dr. Fareed Zakaria of Washington Post would have been way much more qualified than Hillary. Why can't the Obama administration fill such a critical position to the best qualified candidate?

ME IN FL   November 14th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

No to Richardson!! Judas will backstab the American people as he did to the Clintons!!!!! Hillary is suited for this job. She is an intelligent, hard working woman that has guts to stand up to anyone! She has the knowledge and resourceful. She will get us back the respect from the rest of the world that we have lost with this administration. Good choice Obama!!!

Alex   November 14th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Interesting point by TrueIndependent… It might be the nature of the Washington insider circles as opposed to the atmosphere in a devoted campaign staff.

I am hoping that he is being strategic and trying to separate of the wheat and chaff of the Clinton administration to take advantage of the former, rather than these transition and administration picks reflecting a recurrence of the Clinton years. We shall see…

Charlotte   November 14th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Would that position be Bill Richardson's 30 peices of silver?

SA in OO   November 14th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

Richardson is too "folksy" for Secretary of State. A nice guy with a lot of good experience in Washington, but I his personality would be better suited for Secretary of the Interior, than State.

G.   November 14th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

People, people lets deal with the facts here the last time Obama talked about Clinton getting tasked with something it didn't happen. You already know that Hillary will not get selected for the Sec. State job and if she does so what. Although, I'd rather see Richardson anything is better then Condi at this point.

Perusing-Through   November 14th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

WHAT IS GOING ON WITH THESE INTERVIEWS . . .

1.} – Obama interviewed Senator Clinton for USSoS on Thursday,
2.) – Obama interviewing Gov. Bill Richardson for USSoS today (Friday),
3.) – Obama to interview John McCain USSoS on Monday?

*USSoS = U.S. Secretary of State

GA for Obama   November 14th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Dan, FL- FIRST, HE is the leader..SECOND..FOR THE LAST TIME..OPEN YOUR EYES, IDIOT..ONLY A FEW OF OBAMA'S PPL ARE CLINTON APPOINTEES..I'm smelling disaster in your brain..THE last PPL America needs are haters LIKE YOU

JT Dale from Missouri   November 14th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

I honestly do not see what all the commotion is about. I honestly think whoever Obama chooses for SOS will be the best suited for the job. Obama so far made these type of desions before on the campaign trail and look at wonderful choices they turned out to be. Look how much those choices has helped this country so far. Obama has done more in a week and a half than Bush has done in a term and a half. So whoever he chooses will be for the greater good of this country. He may not please all people 100 percent of the time, but it will be for the greater good 100 percent of the time. So stop complaining and get behind our future president's decisions, or if you still want to whine do not comment at all. Obama08&12.

Juan Grain   November 14th, 2008 10:15 pm ET

They shouldn't be leaking any of this stuff out.

jenny   November 14th, 2008 10:14 pm ET

i think she'd blow condi out of the water.

she's much more a peace maker than she leads to believe. has to play tough to play with the boys. now there's a sensitive partner she can talk things through with. barrack + hillary are soul mates much more than…. well, nevermind.

Patty-California   November 14th, 2008 10:07 pm ET

Senator Clinton is by far the most qualified candidate for the position period.

aware   November 14th, 2008 10:06 pm ET

Richardson was so out of it during the primaries that I can't see him in any important position, and Kerry is totally uninspiring (and how about Theresa?)! Payback isn't worth it for these two!

Hillary Clinton is a very good choice and Bill's Global Initiative will chug along regardless of who the Secretary of State is! :)

Texas Teacher   November 14th, 2008 10:06 pm ET

I believe Hillary would be an excellent choice for Secretary of State! She does have the foreign policy experience. She was First Lady for 8 years…. and traveled the world over as I recall!

The change Obama promises comes from the bottom up, not the top down! Don't people LISTEN? Sheeesh… I was amazed at how Obama says something over and over again…. and NO ONE seems to HEAR! And that appears to Still be the case!

Don't even get me started on Condi Rice as a choice…. it boggles the mind that ANYONE could suggest someone so closely aligned with the Bush administration!

mitch   November 14th, 2008 10:05 pm ET

president barack will pick who he wants ,when he wants.the media does not decide. the man gonna be sittin in the big chair jan. 20th, gets to decide who is qualified to take the country in the direction he feels we need to go. we elected him because of his sound judgement. i trust his choice, i just hope he considers gen. wes clark for sec. of defense.

Lilarose in Bandon-by-the-Sea, Oregon   November 14th, 2008 10:03 pm ET

Richardson betrayed Hillary Clinton, his so-called friend.

I hope Obama doesn't pick him. I was a strong Hillary supporter and very reluctantly voted for Obama when Palin came on the scene.

If Richardson gets this job, I will regret my Obama vote. Like in four years I will remember this.

Lauren   November 14th, 2008 10:02 pm ET

I hope it's Richardson. Clinton would be a mistake and I along with many other early Obama supporters would be very saddened.

Ted:Canada   November 14th, 2008 9:56 pm ET

Obama! Canadian Advisor

It is Hillary!

The impact on woman around the world will be huge!

Woman have a profound effect on men in ALL countries.

your worst enemies will be significantly "put down"

Obama – it will give you the time to focus on the economy and
regain world respect.

Hillary – go for it!

Pat Green (CA)   November 14th, 2008 9:53 pm ET

Let's face it…she says she wants to be a senator, but her ultimate goal is to be President. Sec of State would be that stepping stone for her.

tjohnson   November 14th, 2008 9:51 pm ET

If Pres. Elect Obama can forgive negative statements made by Dem. party members and is willing to allow them to work w/his cabinet for the betterment of America. I believe in him. I believe that Pres. Obama will choose the BEST individuals, well qualified, well equipped, well prepared, well educated and w/qualifies that uplifts his vision, mission and duties as USA Pres. HILLARY CLINTON would be a good and probably his best choice as SOS. She has toured over 50 countries, has much international experience, well liked, intelligent, an excellent communicate, not like the R VP pick Palin. I WOULD RATHER HAVE HILLARY AS A REPRESENTIVE OF THE USA. She has demonstrated for over 20 yrs. her love, commitment and dedication on behalf of all citizens regardless of race, religiion, national origin or gender. GO PRES. OBAMA. HILLARY WOULD BE OUTSTANDING.

Joe Green   November 14th, 2008 9:50 pm ET

"keep your friends close, your enemies closer" Sun-tzu, the Art of War.

It is clear why Obama first offered the job to Hillary. If she was part of the administration, she couldn't criticize it or run against Obama in 2012.

However, it now appears that Hillary has turned down the job, so her intentions are all-too-clear.

Expect Hillary to call Obama a "failed President" sometime in late 2009. She will form an exploratory committee to run for the Democratic nomination in 2010. She will try to wrest the nomination from Obama in 2012.

You heard it here first. Now watch for it.

Dan, FL   November 14th, 2008 9:49 pm ET

This will be a real change what was campaigned by Obama. Every step shows his inexperience and he wants to take cover with Clinton appointees. I am smelling disaster for our future.

Duh   November 14th, 2008 9:47 pm ET

Richardson is a far superior choice for this position. Once again, Hillary has zero foreign policy experience. Not in Northern Ireland, not in Kosovo, not in the Middle East.

Her talents and background make her a much better fit for AG.

Ken   November 14th, 2008 9:46 pm ET

Richardson would be the BIGGEST mistake that Obama could make, having him as Secretary of State!

Hillary Clinton would be his wisest choice and it would probably put her in a position in 2012 not to run against Obama.

Hillary Clinton would be a great Secretary of State!

Joe   November 14th, 2008 9:41 pm ET

Hal B – you have to be kidding. C. Rice has been the least diplomatic "diplomat" we've ever had.

Steve   November 14th, 2008 9:40 pm ET

Hey, PUMAs, it's far past time to get a life. Same goes for pro-Obama Hillary bashers.

Both Clinton or Richardson would do a good job. Full stop.

Melissa Petoskey, MI   November 14th, 2008 9:38 pm ET

It should be Bill Richardson. Nothing against Hillary Clinton, I just think he's more suited for the job.

Frederick   November 14th, 2008 9:35 pm ET

I remember one of his comments during a primary debate.
He said:

"Give Peace a Chance"

Based on that ideal, I think he would make an ideal Secretary of State.

james   November 14th, 2008 9:34 pm ET

obama and clinton are like oil and water and just leave it like that

Strong Team   November 14th, 2008 9:34 pm ET

I would rather have Richardson who is a former diplomat.

Furthermore, I think we need to pay more attention to South America, Latin America, and Africa. Both the Russians and the Chinese have more of a presence there than the United States does. We need to fix that.

I don't get why people say Hillary has "foriegn policy" experience … She does not. She made this claim over and over during campaign and I still find it to be an exageration. There is nothing she brings to the qualifications table for Secretary of State. Additionally, do we really want Bill to have unfettered access to Department of State business?

Politically, let Hillary stay in the Senate and build a career there.

just a thought   November 14th, 2008 9:31 pm ET

some good choices.

Matthew   November 14th, 2008 9:30 pm ET

I can't believe people saying Colin Powell would be a better choice. The man sold Bush's war to the international community. And worse, he apparently didn't agree with anyone in the administration. The moment he went to the UN and held up that vial, he lost all credibility.

Richardson and Kerry especially are flakes. Both would be disasters.

And to people questioning Obama's "change" – that went out the door when he picked Biden as his VP.

David   November 14th, 2008 9:28 pm ET

Richardson is a great choice, and not just for the prospect of improving relations with our neighbors in Central and South America. He has extensive diplomatic experience and is temperamentally very similar to Obama.

This "team of rivals" stuff is all well and good when it comes to behind-the-scenes discussions leading to a final decision, but the president should not have a spokesperson to the rest of the world who may not fully represent the president's interests.

Randy, San Francisco   November 14th, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Just like in sports it is a good problem to have…an over abundance of talent to choose from for your team. All the candidates on the short list are qualified to be Secretary of State. A bi-partisan list doubles the number of candidates!

Sasha   November 14th, 2008 9:25 pm ET

There are few people who are more qualified than Richardson – if you think Clinton is honestly a better choice, then you are sorely mistaken. Give her another cabinet seat, just not the one that is practically tailor made for Bill Richardson.

Daniel   November 14th, 2008 9:22 pm ET

OH God!!! Hillary as Secretary of State? give me a break is it Hillary or Bill? That post belongs to General Wessley Clark. The only job Hillary should get is the next TAMPAX spokeswoman as far as I am concern.
And as for Juddas, I think GUILLERMO from the Jimmy Kimmel late night show is a better pick.

Hal B   November 14th, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Richardson — Rice , Clinton — Rice , ———- Rice, Condi Rice
is the most qualified for the position ……

Rose   November 14th, 2008 9:22 pm ET

I have no respect for Richardson. What a traitor. I don't think
the rest of the world would get that excited about him.
Hillary would be good….the nations would respond well to her.

no party affiliation   November 14th, 2008 9:20 pm ET

I would prefer Hillary for the post. The world respects her, even if Americans of color conveniently forget she and Bill were a big part of the reason Obama even had a chance at the Presidency, thanks to their strong work on behalf of people of color. Unlike some, I have a long memory.

You can thank the Clintons for paving the way in your lifetime.

If Obama would like to give it to a person of color, Colin Powell would be the best choice. He's got actual experience in the job, after all.

Mark in Orlando   November 14th, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Richardson is the most qualified person for the job. Clinton would be a much better HHS pick because domestic policy is her forte not foreign policy. Oh, and to those people who want to bring up the fact Obama has picked a lot of Clinton's people, the point of this election was to stop REPUBLICAN policies. Just because the best people to fill these positions are often Clinton's people doesn't mean they won't be able to reverse the last eight years of abysmal governing.

KCB   November 14th, 2008 9:17 pm ET

What about Colin Powell? He's well respected, great resume, and would demonstrate reaching across the asile.

Joe and Natalie   November 14th, 2008 9:16 pm ET

How effective can a women Sec'ty of State be in dealing with Muslim countries that have no respect for women. Our encumbant was graciously received, but what substantive work was accomplished? Are we in for more of the same?????

Hal B   November 14th, 2008 9:15 pm ET

When you change drivers you don't have to change pit crew.. a good leader has to choose capable surrogates lay out an objective, and delegate

Jim   November 14th, 2008 9:11 pm ET

I work for the gov't and they can't even afford to give a decent cost of living adjustment every year, yet they have plenty of money to waste on themselves. They are no better than the CEOs they criticize. The lot of them should be thrown out!

Charlie in Maine   November 14th, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Don't get me wrong I loved having Bill Clinton as President but even his most ardent admirers such as myself have to admit to frustation with the lack of self-discipline he showed. It neary derailed his Presidency and certainly short -circuited his agenda.

Imagine what people suchas Bill Richardson or Hillary for that matter could accomplish for a President who can keep his personal life in check and can keep his full focus on th agenda.

Add to this powerful team put together by this brilliant man a working majority in both houses of congress and there is a chance for some really good things to happen.

Kal   November 14th, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Richardson – SOS – has some credentials and level headedness and no baggage..but difficult choice if you factor NAFTA

Lady in GA   November 14th, 2008 9:08 pm ET

Senator Kerry is a much better choice.

Cynthia; Bham   November 14th, 2008 9:06 pm ET

Good, talk with everyone and make an informed decision.

virginia for obama   November 14th, 2008 9:06 pm ET

PEOPLE, PEOPLE, PEOPLE OPEN YOUR MINDS. PLEASE -CHANGE comes in all forms without changing a soul. Its about doing
things differently, redirecting and rethinking etc. GOSH! ALMIGHTY.

precilla dreams   November 14th, 2008 9:03 pm ET

lets go obama. you need the best to run the best. and thats what we are, so im all for getting us going again. im ok with it its all about putting this country back together. so lets get it done. obama is very smart he knows what he is doing.

OBAMA 4 President   November 14th, 2008 9:03 pm ET

This doesn't sound like Barack, surely he's more decisive than this. I think this is pure conjecture. Obama will not offer the same job to two people, not his style.

I truly believe there is a certain amount of testing the waters by the press, but if Obama had a one on one meeting with Hillary, only two people know what transpired, since Obama will not leak, we can guess who has. Not to worry though, it will all work out for good. May the best candidate win.

Personally I prefer Hillary to Richardson.

New England Yankee   November 14th, 2008 9:02 pm ET

As far as this voter is concern, I voted for Barack Obama and now he's running the show. I've been around a long time and this is the FIRST time that I have felt good about the future. We will look back on this and thank GOD we elected this man.

Daryl from Seattle   November 14th, 2008 8:59 pm ET

ooooh, I'm sure William Clinton doesn't like that.

Jordan in Miami   November 14th, 2008 8:58 pm ET

Anybody but Judas!

You want someone that will backstab for his own political gains than pick Richardson. At least Clinton told Obama how she felt about him during the primaries.

Anyway I don't care about whether Clinton will take it or not but ANYBODY BUT JUDAS!

Rachel   November 14th, 2008 8:57 pm ET

Step of Richardson. You did not side with the peole of New Mexico and it was HILLARY who was in a meeting with barack and other hispanic leaders a few weeks before the election trying to make sure some latinos would get some positions in the white house. I know I should let bygones be bygones but I would love to see Hillary get SOS over Bill Richardson.

Sara from Arizona   November 14th, 2008 8:57 pm ET

So much for CHANGE!!!!!!!

OBAMA 4 President   November 14th, 2008 8:56 pm ET

I think Hillary is a better pick.

Marie   November 14th, 2008 8:56 pm ET

Go for it Hillary you'll be great.You and Obama will bring america together.I wonder what Palin is thinking about all of this.There's got to be alot of envy.It was always said Palin is not a Hillary Clinton and since the republicans and her supporters thought she would make a great vice president this will show her the real female politcian that can not only be a heartbeat away from the president but she could be the president,secretary of state or serve any part of the cabinet of the highest office in the united states which is something that Palin could not be qualified for I betcha

Hal B   November 14th, 2008 8:52 pm ET

I think Pres elect Obama should ask Condi to stay on; I think she's been a pawn in the Bush admin. Condi Rice is an intelligent capable woman with, I might add, a headstart. This would also bridge party lines…

fmjk   November 14th, 2008 8:52 pm ET

Perfect choice. Keep Hillary in the Senate to solve the health care crisis.

Coleman R. Brice, Bradley Beach, NJ   November 14th, 2008 8:50 pm ET

YES GOOD MOVE Pres. OBAMA!!

An Independent Hillary   November 14th, 2008 8:48 pm ET

Hillary yes – Richardson no

Kerry definitely not!

sine   November 14th, 2008 8:47 pm ET

There is but so many people in washington that have the experience and the talent – the fact the barack obama has a lot of clinton people does not mean the same ol' politics. CHANGE starts from the top. People need to stop nitpicking at every thing this man does. CHANGE is the way a person governs. I'm a hundred percent positive this man will not govern like bush – and i'm pretty sure he is a little more advanced than clinton.

Please stop all this back and forth…citizens …media …sick of it all.

gp   November 14th, 2008 8:47 pm ET

How Clinton is going to represent Obama's vision of our position in the world when SHE QUOLIFIED HIS POSITION AS NAIVE and has VERY DIFERENT APROACH that sounde more as Bush McInsane!!!!!!!!! This diference was very important to me when I decided to cast vote for Obama. I personaly would feel tricked if chooses her . There must be otrher place for her.Thet position is too sensitive to put at risc of not working well together……World is looking what will be our position toward world and that can infliuence how much harder or easier wil be to menage even domestic issues.. Good luck Obama , Be wise !!!!!!!!!

Support the Prez Elect   November 14th, 2008 8:46 pm ET

Laurel, you know what? I hope you had the same pessimist attitude during the 2000 and 2004 election when Bush was elected, and re-elected. I knew that would be a disaster, but Americans voted him in not once, but TWICE. Anything opposite from what his administration has done is CHANGE for the better.

Susan   November 14th, 2008 8:44 pm ET

We feel Hillary Clinton would be excellent for the position.

JB   November 14th, 2008 8:42 pm ET

Richardson could very possibly be the best Sec. of State in the last 100 years. He would be a great choice.

arlene, CA   November 14th, 2008 8:42 pm ET

I would rather have Richardson than Clinton. I feel like the Clintons time is over.

Raine   November 14th, 2008 8:42 pm ET

Obama I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU ARE HAVING "THE CLINTONS" IN YOUR PARTY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We voted for YOU, if we wanted "THE CLINTONS" we would have voted for them!!!!!!!!!!! OH I am sooooo disappointed!!!!!

teesha   November 14th, 2008 8:41 pm ET

Sorry but no Clintons, too much problems around….

Tennisguypitt   November 14th, 2008 8:41 pm ET

I like this… But it's not too hard to please me.

Change, indeed   November 14th, 2008 8:39 pm ET

To Laurel: …and what is wrong with all these former "Clinton-ites"? The Clinton years were the good old days…obviously these folks know what it takes to bring prosperity to the country- something we've been lacking since………oh, the last Clinton administration?

Democrats No Matter What!!   November 14th, 2008 8:37 pm ET

Hillary is not qualified for that job. Sen. Obama has said many times that he wanted "the best" people for the posts in his administration, so that leaves Hillary out.

Richardson is the most qualified and should get it automatically, if he wants it, which I'm sure he does. He could talk to the countries that Bush made enemies of, and would not talk to. He could negotiate peace all over the world, and I don't think Hillary is capable of that.

The job for Hillary is Sec. of HHS. That would put her in line to help out with the Universal Healthcare for Americans. Giving her the top diplomatic job doesn't make sense, since she isn't very diplomatic. Just because she lived in the White House doesn't mean she's capable of negotiating peace across the globe. She couldn't even bring peace to our primaries.

I hope President-elect Obama picks ONLY the MOST qualified people to fill the positions to lead our country. We've had enough of these know-nothing folks ruining our government.

Roy - Chicago IL   November 14th, 2008 8:36 pm ET

Clinton is the stronger candidate for Secretary of State. Bill Richardson could fill another cabinet post admirably.
Yes the names are familiar, remember it was only 8 years ago…….and these people have been at this for awhile. Just because our President is a relative newcomer in the last decade does not invalidate anyone who has been here for awhile!

Frances   November 14th, 2008 8:35 pm ET

If Richardson is appointed Secretary of State, I'm moving to China. He sure hasn't done anything for NM (my home state) wh ile he's been Gov.

Phillip Collins   November 14th, 2008 8:35 pm ET

It is this kind of excess and greed that got our country in economic trouble in the and first place. Not only do our citizens live beyond their means our government does also. Who we trying to impress? We are just a nation of debtors to other countries. Guess we trying to get them not to call our loans due.

JJ in NY   November 14th, 2008 8:35 pm ET

Clinton would be a disaster !

Obama need to distance himself from any Clinton, or risk be just another puppet .

Susan   November 14th, 2008 8:30 pm ET

She would be an excellent Secretary of State…and there would be absolutely no conflict or interest with Former President Clinton. Remember, he was President and she was First Lady!!…They are absolutely the best and most unique team for this country.

Ross in MD   November 14th, 2008 8:29 pm ET

Richardson for SOS.

If we wanted Clinton in the White House, we would have elected her.

marie   November 14th, 2008 8:28 pm ET

i sure hope that ,were they to pick hillary clinton, they will be able to prevent Bill Clinton from sticking his nose where he's not wanted. I hope he remembers that she IS the secretary of state; that way the obama administration will remain "no drama-obama"

Laurel   November 14th, 2008 8:27 pm ET

As much as I like the Clintons and like Richardson as Gov of NM (my home state), I have to wonder at the "change" this administration is going to bring with all these former Clinton-ites–Emanuel, Podesta–and now possibly Clinton or Richardson. Just a thought.

Letty   November 14th, 2008 8:24 pm ET

I really hope Hillary Clinton excepts the Secretary of State position. She would be the smarter choice other than that Bill Richardson a.k.a JUDAS. This comment is coming from a Hispanic!

Obama 08...   November 14th, 2008 8:24 pm ET

Hello, I'm from New Mexico, and I have to tell the people of our country that Bill Richardson is absolutely the best leader for our Secretary of State. Bill Richardson knows how to talk to people. He engages himself and listens. Not to mention, he is an all-around great guy. No offense to Clinton, but Richardson has the qualifications and all of our nations would be better off with Richardson than Clinton. Bill Richardson is all about people, and his agenda is for the people. What a great thing to have a mixed president and a Hispanic representative. USA!!!!!

mike   November 14th, 2008 8:19 pm ET

A very good choice!

Ruth   November 14th, 2008 8:16 pm ET

Bilingual Richardson would be good as Secretary of State. What would happen if Obama has to send Hillary to Kosovo – would she be attacked by sniper fire?

Sara from Arizona   November 14th, 2008 8:14 pm ET

NO MORE CLINTONS!!!!!!!!! Time for change like Obama promised.

ken   November 14th, 2008 8:14 pm ET

PERFECT!

joe   November 14th, 2008 8:12 pm ET

Hurrayyyy!

TrueIndependent   November 14th, 2008 8:09 pm ET

I hope Obama now sees that when he ran his campaign with his hand-picked Chicago guys, NOTHING ever leaked to the press. BUT, now that he has Clinton people on his transition, there are so many leaks, it is crazy.

If Obama continues to be as strategic as he was before, then he is only using the Clinton people to make sure he does not repeat the Clinton' s transition problems.

I bet the Richardson SoS issue was intentionally leaked to neutralize the Hillary leak!

Yet again, wherever the Clintons go, drama is right behind and beside them. This is indeed sad!

joshua   November 14th, 2008 8:08 pm ET

A much better choice than Clinton.

New Day   November 14th, 2008 8:07 pm ET

I love Richardson but I would prefer Clinton for Secretary of State. I am sure there will be another post for the Gov.

jimmy   November 14th, 2008 8:02 pm ET

One never knows what Obama will do until it is done. so dont presume to know who is or isnt in whatever cabinet post in Obama's Administration.

Gwen, MD   November 14th, 2008 8:02 pm ET

Good, he and the latinos deserve it. I hope Barack has a seat at the table for all races.

Just Some Guy   November 14th, 2008 8:00 pm ET

He was my choice as Obama's VP, but Secretary of State would be good, too. Bill Richardson is well-respected around the world, has plenty of diplomatic credentials, and isn't one who can be bullied around by despots. Good choice.

voter   November 14th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

excellent choice. Much better than Clinton. Clinton will be good as director of health and human services so she can be a player in pushing legislation for healthcare.

Texans for Obama   November 14th, 2008 7:56 pm ET

I think Bill Richardson would be an excellent SoS.

Barbara in NC   November 14th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

Always good to have a choice of two good people – Hillary may say "no" again.

Guess we'll have to wait and see. Driving Blitzer nuts – ha ha ha ha ha

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