CNN

Becerra will take the job LATER for sure, as HE WANTS TO
NEGOTIATE CERTAIN CONDITIONS WITH THE BOSS!

Who would like to be regarded SECOND GRADE after Becerra
refused to make use of his FIRST OPTION!?

Of course it's neccessary to be enthusiastic in politics, but
it's more important for EXPERIENCED HIGH RANK MANAGERS of the
administration to make sure that they are not obliged to just
OBAY ORDERS like Recruits in the Army have to do,
to learn their job to survive and win on the battlefield.

AMERICA DESPERATELY NEEDS A TRADE REPRESENTATIVE WHO BELIEVES IN NO TRADE UNLESS ITS U.S. MADE GOODS BEING EXPORTED WE HAVE TOO MANY IMPORTS TO REMAIN A SAFE AND STRONG NATION.

Maybe Rep. Becerra didn't want to be out of a job in four years when Obama finish his one an only term.

@ Jeff who said:
"Obama denied! That is just awesome……and has to humble a guy who has the most arrogant personality and biggest ego of anyone I have seen on television (yes…including Hollywood stars)."
--
DUDE!! Take off the blinders – have you listened to BUSH or CHANEY in the last week alone. Talk about ARROGANCE.

What a smart man! Obama is nothinig but hype from the media – no experience, no proven leadership, no proven ability. Let's see how we spiral...

He said No to Obama? Doesn't he know who Obama is?

Oh well, who cares ..... NEXT!!!!!!!!

From reading some of the previous comments, it's some pretty sick people out there. Is it a crime to be happy in the job? Some people are reading far to much into Rep. Becerra saying no, and need to grow up. Obama can't do anymore damage to our country or our ecomony than Bush and his administration has already done. I guess if we had voted for McCain/Palin it would be all peaches and cream right now. We're in a very big mess and we better figure out how to start working together and get it fixed, instead of continuing to sling mud at someone who has not even sworn in yet. This is still Bush's watch until Jan. 20, 2009 so stop blaming President-Elect Obama for everything that has already happened. Some of you are filled with so much hate and ignorence that you won't give Obama a fair chance. You were willing to sacrafice yourselves and family by voting for McCain/Palin to get more of Bush's love for america just because Obama is part African American, and was given his fathers name, WOW. WAKE UP PEOPLE, we all know that Bush wasn't elected by the people. We know that Bush, other high ranking Republicans in Congress, his brother, and the supreme court stole the presidency to do exactly what is being done to us, but people were willing to stand behind him anyway. Now the rich is very rich, and the poor is worse off as always. I'm glad there will finally be someone actually occupying that office, because as far as I am concerned, that office has been empty for the past 8 year because Bush wasn't elected, so he wasn't there. Oh, by the way just because Obama is from Chicago, doesn't mean he is a lying thief like your boy. Just because Obama is Black doesn't mean he's bad.

It's frustrating reading half of your posts–Some of you unnecessarily find faults and incessantly belittle President-elect Obama and others in the Party. Seriously? For those of you that say he's egotistical or makes poor decisions–He's one of the sharpest people in politics. He came from "humbling" beginnings and worked hard, earning his way to some of the best schools in our country. Most of you that constantly rag on him, ask yourself... are you finding faults with him or yourself?

This guy is making more money than secretary of trade.he also has something that unfinished bussiness.He got something for sale!

He is hiding something.

--after picking hill clinton for the sec of state...i dont trust obama anymore....i voted for him cuz, he said he'll bring change,,, but he fooled me...

he didn't want to get his hands dirty...unlike someone's chief of staff...

he didn't want to get his hands dirty...like someone's chief of staff

How can he think that trade will not be a top priority when facing an economic crisis that will require equal attention given to trade as well as environment, infrastructure, education and even agriculture!

Clearly he is not a fit (for whatever many or few reasons), and he was gracious enough to conclude this. I won't speculate on why but, I admire his recognition and declination. He does look like trouble for the cast and wise to stay away.

Andy – You haters will be the minority real soon. People of color will be the majority and while the white race fade away year after the year.

I believe the reason that Becerra declined the position that Obama offered is because something in his background check did not go through smoothly, so to save Becerra dignity, Obama just allowed him to say he refused the position. Inconjunction, when Valarie Jarrett was supposed to get the senate seat and it did not go through, the media was told that she refused the position and took the advisory position instead. I believe Obama has made some great choices. No one man does not change that fact, maybe Mr. Becerra had personal reasons why he could not accept the position.

Good for Xavier!

This is the bad news we are about to experience....

Obama is so inexperienced he doesn't realize the importance of Trade!!

Welcome to the HELL of Carter II....

Those of you too young to remember the hell of Carter I will never vote for or trust an inexperienced Liberal again!

I feel where that guy is coming from. He probably doesn't want to deal with the mess of working for and in the white house. Hey, you can't knock him because he didn't want it. He probably loves the job he has. In congress he will have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects. I can understand where he is coming from.

so somebody think lawyers in politics ruines the country

if so good luck America you did it again......!!!!!!!!!!!!

*<*<*<*<*<*<*<*<*<*<*<*<*<*<*<*<********************

Arkansas Undertaker, I agree that there might be big skeletons in this guys closet ... so he turned down the job ... in any case... NEXT...

Our president, Obama, is handling things very well.............

Fall ...comes after Pride...The pride and arrogance of the young man shows in his face. Obama, you have our support. He is looking for a priority job, lets see his resume...

Bottom line. He's afraid and can't handle the challenge. What fool who has been vetted to this job wouldn't take it; unless if himself feel he is unqualified. At least the lationos can't say BO didn't offer their race a job in the administration. BO always trying to give someone the benefit of the doubt, even though he vetts pretty tough.

You gotta love this guy. Haters and racists need to seek the true ONE (Jesus Christ). Your souls are in danger of HELL fire!

Sounds to me like this guy knows nothing about multi-tasking and uses tunnel vision only which we've seen for the last 8 years.

TO OLD TIMER: Dont worry Im sure that your trustworthy unbiased FOX NEWS Sean Hannity and Bill O'Reilly will be at the forefront for and anything negative against this administration so Im sure you will have your warped view reported. I have nothing against the senior citizens of our nation we will all be old one day but my problems with most of the Repubs which obvioulsy reflects mostly old white men and women is that your unrelentless in not wanting to change, you're always satisfied with how things are because thats what you grew up with, you think nothing about the future of your children or Grandchildren

Pretty good. By not taking the job, if he disagrees with Obama, he doesn't stand the chance of being fired.

Can't wait for Obama to get in office so I can throw my shoe at him.
I plan to treat Obama just like the democrats treated Bush, so it won't be hatefull when I follow their lead.

How dare he turn down the Great Obama! Now, Obama will use his magic powers to punish this insolence!

Bacerra just knows that Obama will work him to the bone... like he's going to work everyone else to the bone...

Congress has become a place where the people are spoiled with cushy jobs and little responsibility other than filling their own pockets and casting votes.

Oh well just find someone else Next!

The time has Come, you should not rage THE OLD TIMER when you have not even learned to spell. Way to go smart one...............

For all you idiots who continue the negative attacks on Obama. Let me remind you morons – can I call you morons? – let me remind you morons that for the majority of the last 8 – o.k, I'll spell it out for you – EIGHT – years – your beloved Bush and his Republican run Congress – have brought this country to its knees.

Obama hasn't even set foot in the White House and you're blaming you present lot in life on him. There's NO where else to go in this country but UP.

All of you so called Obama haters – read a freakin' book about the process....or did you burn those too because they scare you and the words are too tough to pronounce? Freakin' idiots

Don't be such drama queens! Obviously trade ins't one of Obama priorities and Rep. Becerra has a very powerful job in Congress so he just wants to kepp it. It's no big deal.

Without a doubt the smartest, not clean, but smartest candidate yet. Boy, Obama hasn't entered the office yet, and he's already degraded the office and people don't respect him. How do you expect repubs and conservs to respect him if dems and libs don't. Stop the hating you dems and libs and support the prez to be, lol.

Given the current state of the economy see people just wanting/wishing that things get worse just to 'proudly' say 'TOLD YA!!!" is sick. None of you guys have any proofs that BHO IS going to sink the country.
PROOFS, not what Rush Limbaugh, Savage and the likes says in their shows (without never bothering to explain how they came to the conclusion in a rational way), but anything that can be considered by someone reasonable that does not (yet) share the same point of view of you would consider as a valid evidence.
But you probably are still doubting that he's American, so...

Smart move, I'd say.

It's funny to see all the Obama haters posting indirect insults against him to vent their anger and frustration from losing the election. I guess some people just can't let go, but guess what? Yes we did, and no you didn't.

shaun

seattle, wa

Of course, trade is not going to be the No.1 issue of the new administration, but it will be wrapped up in what actually is the No.1 issue, the economy. Perhaps Rep. Becerra didn't want to act as spokesman for positions he didn't agree with. I can respect him, if that's the case.

Deport him!

@Obama-Mama Don't throw that shoe woman, I'll go anywhere that's free of Democrats

Everyone has a right to say no and I am sure that there are many other qualified applicants that will be able to lead that portfolio. This is only a big deal to those who think it is a big deal to "say no" to President-Elect Obama. I am sure the congressman will have a lot of air time in the next five years. He can also join with the Republicans in defeating honourable policy decisions that will benefit the American people. It is no big deal. He can now cut out the article, frame it and boast about if for years to come.

Man of Peace-

Have to say, first off, that your post does not reflect your name.

I am happy for you that you believe Obama is going to make this country a better place for all of us. Faith is a good thing. I, however, will reserve my opinion until such a time as I can, responsibly, have an opinion. Your, blindly, nodding your head at his every move is what has always scared the rest of us about you Obominations.

The fact of the matter is that he has just as much chance of making the country a worse place for all of us. I will give the man the opportunity to prove his worth, beings as he has done nothing in his career, so far, to prove it. But, I will not stare at him, lovingly, and make excuses for him if his Presidential decisions turn sour. Can you say that Man of Peace?

And, guess what? It wasn't my attitude that created the "dark side" of our history. It was the attitude of people that followed, comatose, those leaders who talked a good game and then lead us down the wrong path.

Washington State have many of qualifed people that could serve. Hopefully he will look at Rep. Smith or Gary Locke

I don't think this is that big of a deal, so what if he turned down a job offer he still has a very important job now that was given to him by his constituants, what would people be saying if every presidents job offers had to be accepted? It wouldn't be good I'll tell you that and that is what it is and offer so it CAN be turned down.

As for the spew thats being thrown around about latinos being racists thats a load of crap! Sure there a few bad apples in every group of people but to say Latinos as a whole are racists is ridiculous! Thats the same bigotry that has gotten us into a mess. Obama is proof that that mine frame has now changed in people maybe you bigots should do the same!

I admire Rep. Becerra. He will serve our country well in Congress and we need great folks in the House working hard for America.

@ Andy

I guess your not a Christian since we Christians do not hate we forgive. So your forgiven since you only have the intellect that God gave you we all understand where you are coming from.

Peace and God's Blessings to you!

i am crying because someone said no..what will happen to the world,, all is out of balance now,,, the chi became chow,, the chow became

Trade would be a big deal ,but we really don't have anything to trade with. Pyramid schemes don't fall in that category

Maybe he's just too lazy and know he will have to actually work.

Certainly don't want to hear Navarette crying and moaning anymore about no Latinos being selected by Obama...

I'm trying to figure out what makes Obama arrogant? Nothing about him comes off as arrogant to me.

I'm asking a question and not trying to be a jerk. I'd like an example of how he is being an arrogant guy.

@ ANDY... AND ALL WHO CONTINUE THE "JOKE" OF THE MESSIAH, ............STOP....... YOU ARE OFFENSIVE!

With ...... 76% ...... of Americans APPROVING of how President-elect Obama is handling transition, his choices and the way he has inspired us during the BUSH DISASTER........ the far-right hate mongers can only ..... offend!

Saying no, is just fine. People need to do what is best. Obviously Becerra has other plans.

THE FAR-RIGHT-HATE-LIES-FEAR-AND-DIVISION MONGERS WILL ONE DAY BE EATING A LARGE PORTION OF....... CROW!

I feel sympathy for those who did extrordinary things and are truly deserving of being recognized as 'Person Of The Year".

Note to Media: Stop bending over for Obama.

Andy – I think you have to deny him three times.

I can't believe all dramatic reactions people are having towards this. He (Becerra) just thought he can be more helpful where he is now or maybe not the right person for the job (I think someone with a strong background in trade economics would be better). It's not like it's a slap in the face to Obama. You are allowed to decline.

Notice how no one has asked Obama about what he thinks about the shoe thrower throwing a shoe at Bush. They don't want him to have to make the hard choice between offending true blooded American's and muslim's overseas.

What is WITH you people? I voted for President Elect Obama, and have respected most of his choices for his staff and cabinet. The fact that ONE person he invited to take a place in his Cabinet said no is NOT a big deal. I respect the reasons that Becerra stated, and would hope that his integrity and desire to serve his constituency would be matched by the respect he would be accorded for following that desire. Certainly, his desire to put trade first resonates with his constituency, and is likely an important part of PE Obama's economic recovery. I think it is too narrow, myself, but after all PE Obama is not collecting a group of "yes-persons" and he could have added that note to the discussion. But wanting to fulfill the office to which he was elected is hardly a crime!

What's the fuss about? Is this just another attempt on the part of the new tabloid-style reporting CNN to somehow belittle Obama? Shame on you.
GOBAMA!

moderation,, sure ,call it censorship , cnn if its not all obama its nothing at all... and . no i very rarely watch cnn,,, but i love this alter to the god obama,, no wonder kenya had a national holiday... really america,,, a holiday for a potus,, whom is not yet

Gee ... do we really know if he was asked? Wouldn't Arnold appoint his replacement? Begs the question ... would that appointment be a Latino or even a Democrat?

stop the hatred ,, obama is lord of us,, he makes our wishes come true,, he stops all ,, btw obots,, ask your god to give back the jobs in vegas and atlantic city,, oh , i just heard ,, on jan 22 2009 all jobs that were lost,, all homes that were in foreclousure will be reinstated,,, thank you god obama for making this world a better place,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,snicker lol

Running from leadership responsibility or skeletons he doesn't want out. He knows the media will perform an autopsy on his life and career.

Independent In NY...

You got it right. This guy probably has some skelletons in there.

To Andy:

"Someone said no to Obama! Don't you get to go to hell for denying the Messiah."

No..... but you get your country bombed and decimated by shock and awe if you say "no" to Bush!

No....but you get your name "outed" as a CIA agent if Cheney doesn't like you.

No...but you do go to hell for lying: for like...hmmm, I don't know Troopergate, Wardrobegate, WMDs in Iraq, (insert lie told by the current Administration here) ...

It's a good thing... this dude is a crook.

I see the Obamaniacs are still using the old "change" theme even though Obama is clearly not about change. We can see that from the retreads he filled his cabinet with. That isn't to say they are not qualifed people; they certainly are. But he can no longer use change as his mantra.

Mickie...

"...he can't serve the President and fight for sending jobs oversees, freebies for China and South America but not for the U.S. True republican..."

He is a Democrat. I know, I know. Hard to believe that a Democrat would say no to the chosen one.

Let me ask you guys a question. What is so threatening about Obama that all you can do is make hateful remarks? First, he can't be compared with Bush because Bush had a record of destroying everything he was ever put over including our country. I don't see anyone griping about his record, is it because he is a white male? When will we get over the resentment that a black man who worked hard for everything he has EARNED finally got payback. It's sad. I am so glad that as a teacher, I see openmindedness and love in the future generations. There is a reason why the man said no, and I'm sure they are respected. I will pray for whomever takes his spot.

( To OLD TIMER ): It's people like yourself who think that ( lying, Killer Bush and Corrupt Chaney ) has done nothing wrong to this country in the last 8yrs. Let me remind you, just in case you've been living in a cave for 8yrs: 1: Lied to the country about WMDs in Iraq. 2: thousands of innocent American troops are dead b/c of this liar, O wait and still counting. 3: thousands of Iraqis are dead b/c of this liar, O yeah, and still counting. 4: billions of dollars spend in that invasion of Iraq, and still counting. 5: Sat back a watch a major U.S. city drown for 5 days before he responded, ( Hurricane Katrina ), one hundred plus people died. 6: Mortgage collapse. 7: banking indust. collapsing. 8: thousand of people losing their jobs, and still counting. 9: the U.S. hated all over the world b/c of this idiot. 10: 19% approve rating. So (Old Timer ), I guess those things are not important to you, I guess b/c Obama will make a few mistakes, that's far worst than the things ( Lying Killer Bush and corrupt Chaney ) has done to this country in your eyes. Let me guess you voted for ( Sarah Palin ), if so, that tells the whole story. A TRUE NUT !!!!!!!!!!! Country first my A#$ !!!!!!

marginal bit player with the "right name" at best. All these people are fungible. Time to move on. Legends in own minds....

Wow – now here's an ego the job won't be the top 3 priorities so he doesn't want it.

To "time has come" – why is it that it's always the people that can't spell that call other people "idiots"?

"...He does not look like someone should be offered top priority job anyway..."

How exactly does one need to 'look' to be offered a top job?

I am glad he won't stay with Obama, smart man!

Mosst of these comments sound like sore losers to me. Any man has a right to ask and any man has a right to refure. No big deal.

Did everyone see Dick Cheney take responsibility for his actions. A man of conviction. A man or principal. I man who calls it like it is.

Did everyone see Obama change his position on the Iraq war, on Gitmo, on accepting public financing? A man who blows with the political winds.

Did everyone see Pelosi's blank stare when asked about torture. She sat in meetings where she was told about the waterboarding and her only response was to question whether or not we were doing enough. Then in public, when others found out about the waterboarding, she acted all upset and said that torture would not be tolerated. Now that Obama is in, she's softening her stance.

What's next, tapping private phone conversations between terrorists will become ok? Oh wait, they are already caving on that too.

Change the gullable can believe in.

I love how my comments never show up.

Wonder if Obama threw his shoe at him

PS I have two words for all the people on this site who are bashing Obama. Stop hatin'

He was only tapped because he was a Hispanic and Latinos/Hispanics are making a big deal because there aren't "enough" people who share their heritage in the upcoming admin yet. I'm glad he's staying in the House, there's a lot of work to be done and Obama can't be pulling people left and right out of congress for his admin. Who will be left to push the agenda through Capitol Hill?

Trade is important but it is not priority #1. If we are not producing enough goods/services in the U.S. to trade then I don't see the immediate benefit. Currently the state of our economy prohibits the jobs necessary for the production of goods/services that we could export.

I agree with a previous comment that the position offered is not big enough for Becerra's ego.

As for the comment that we are going from bad to worse with President Obama is naive. Things are going to get worse before they get better regardless if Obama or McCain was the new President-elect because our current President has dropped the bottom out of nation. It's not going to be an easy fix for anyone.

"the first smart person on the block….i would not want to be picked by Obama for anything……. wait until the bottom drops out and falls directly on the people the this guy has picked….."

Oh yes... The TRUE AMERICAN here.

Let the U.S. burn and put millions of US citizens with families out of jobs so we can get back at a politcial party.

So many traitors to the Amercian way it's pathetic.

all of you cynics, will tuck obama in bed soon.i guarentee it

He seems to be self serving to me. He wants to make sure he can stay where he feels he's most important. He's just ego tripping like so many in politics. You know what would be funny though if it turns out that whoever takes that position becomes center of attention after all the economy is his number one focus and the last time I checked trade could have a pretty big effect on it. He probably couldn't stand up to the pressure anyway.

Becerra has every right to refuse a particular position. We are in the United States of America and I will agree with him on one point. Trade is not going to be the main target of this administration. We need to take care of home first and that means jobs....and the economy. What we could do however is reduce Trade of vitals industries such as textiles, foreign cars, and other made somewhere else.....We need Americans to work, save and spend....That's what America is all about!!!!

Obama needs to start turning to some southern democrats as well as well as latinos.

I wonder why, what's the stench?

News FLASH REpublicans and racist:

BARACK OBAMA IS THE POTUS

GET OVER IT HATERS!!!!!!

"Yeah Matt, do as your President tells you to do and ask questions later.

That is what the people of Germany said about Hitler 60 years ago."

So by this statement to think that US Soldiers that "DO" what our President asks are all Nazi's?

Wow..Nice pure Black & White world you live in...Must be nice.

He is entitled to say no; just like the president elect is entitled to make the offer. That's what democracy is all about.

Let's not make a big deal out of this people.

Don't make this a personal tit for tat. A black vs. hispanic dis'

Too many serious issues facing us now, let's try not add to it.

So, if this guy can't be one of the big players on the team, he doesn't want to play at all? I guess it's all about him and not service to country.

Still so much hate being posted. Rather than spew your venom, why not get up out of your chair and actually be a contributing member of society – join a local organization, volunteer your time, – no matter your political affiliation. Just do something positive to help this country. Hasn't there been enough hate spread around this world to last you a life time or is that what really gets you going?

Hate it here in the USA so much? Move somewhere else.

And you each know to whom I refer.

Good for Becerra! This was a token offer to appease latinos for tipping the vote in his favor. Hopefully people will wake up and see Obama for what he really is.

I think Becerra may have his own personal reasons for not taking the Job, however at this point and time we need to work together to better the USA to the best of our abilities.

usualy when a politicians rejects an oppurtunity to be in a presidential administration it means they have some stuff that needs to remain in the closet well hidden. Obama has enough drama with the media creating drama ala Blagoiviech. I enjoy how you trolls continue to try and cal Obama a messiah...just oges to show how insecure you are to project that falsehood onto him. So what he drew big crowds of people, so what if he inspired people...isn't that what you would want a president to do...inspire instead of invoking fear, stress, hate and anger?

@The time has Come ... try spellcheck before you call someone an idiot ...

This guy was obviously a loser...Obama will find someone better. It is an HONOR to be considered for Obama's cabinet!

Always entertaining reading the ignorance of so many (not all) of you liberal whacks! Where is the so-called unity many of you preached about? This guy turns down a job with the Almighty One, and you immediately tear him down. What you need to examine is why he made this decision!

And please, attempt to proofread your comments before you post. Trying to figure out the nonsense you are typing is nearly impossible with your horrendous spelling, grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, etc. Hopefully, Obama will immediately establish a government-funded proofreading program for Silly Liberals.

LOL at all of the people who are saying that Obama will make thigs worst. I don't know where you've been but things can't get much worst that they are now .... the only place we can go is up.

So Obama's next choice for this position will have to say to himself "Obama had to settle for me." Bummer....

I wonder how many of these people posting would say "what a great pick!" if he had accepted. People are so fickle.

He is allowed to say 'no' w/o it being a big deal for either individual. Ya'll are really reading too much into this one.

Don't make it so personal!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So much hate and the haters make it so obvious to those of us in this country and around the world. When are you going to understand that one of the reasons for the dark side of our history, and so many of the negative opinions around the world are because of people just like you. The world is watching you, but I doubt that you have the intellect to care. In spite of your hate, most of us in this country believe that President-Elect Obama will make this country a better place.....EVEN FOR YOU!

The good news is that YOU are the new minority and you should die out in about a generation. See Ya.

@Andy

That's right, now you go to hell and wait there for him.

He didn't have to accept the offer. Suits him.

This man clearly has somethign to hide!!!! Now the press is going to come after him very hard and dig up whatever he is hiding.

One thing is for sure, the current president-elect will be a drastic improvement over the current train wreck. I could not believe his logic for not taking the advice of his team experts to end the war in Iraq. His justification(?)...Send end even more of our finest to their deaths so that he and Chaney don't have to admit that blew it, with the bs justification that it would disrespect those who already fallen(?)so the allowing of even more fall, some how HONORS those that have already fallen somehow HONORS those that have already fallen? That sounds like the demented driveling of psychopathic monster to me.

What? Obama run out of people from Chicago to appoint???

Mr. Obama need to elect more African Americans. I do respect his choise.

Wow. Based on the intellectual level apparent in the comments from the Obama haters, it's easy to understand how the righties managed to F things up so badly in 8 years.

The time has Come December 17th, 2008 12:38 pm ET
said

Hey OLD TIMER:

Your comments are just uderline your name. Tlak about a stupid idiot of a person. If you could do better why didn't you run for President? Oh…waite maybe because it's your old ways of thinking. Grow up get a life and try to bring this country together…Oh Waite it's old fools like you that can't stand change or when someone does it BETTER than you.
------------------------
Please, if you are trying to impress us with how smart you are, at least check your spelling for errors! Telling someone else to grow up and get a life is ok if you represent yourself as someone who at least has finished high school – and not leave the impression you are a drop out ,as you did here.

Wow the amount of vitrial and miss information on this thread.

Perhaps he really likes what he's doing now perhaps he has other issues? This idea that he's either a dope for not accepting the position or smart becuase Obama's bad news is hilarious.

Ever heard the words "freedom of choice?"

He probably could not get thru the vetting process due to a few closet skeltons or two. Bet?

I feel it's ok to take your career in a different path than what someone else has chosen for you. Trust me, Barack will choose another person. The world won't end because this man turned down this position. I am sure Barack isn't mad at him, because he's not a dictator.

OOH ! What's in HIS closet ?

He said no to Obama!!!!! Now he will be vetted and hounded throughout the Obama administration. LOL

When an offer is made and usually turned down after the fact its because something came up in the transistion process that keeps it from moving forward. What I like about this transistion team is it allows for the recipient to bow out gracefully. While keeping his dignitity intact. I am sure Xavier Becerra would have jumped at the chance to be the first Latino trade representative.

He's not joining Obama's team.....who cares. I think Obama can survive without him!

Oh my god,

Someone said no to Time magazines Man of the Year !!!!!!!!!!!!!

Funny, lets name some of Times men of the year
Hitler, Stalin, Nixon, Carter, Gingirch,
and
George Bush,,, not once but THREE times.
1990,2000 and 2004

And imagine, he said no to a person in suxh good company.

Andy, you call Barack Obama the Messiah all the time.
You said it, not somebody else on these blogs.
You just love the man but you cannot speak it out yet.
Just say, I love Barack Hussein Obama.
Better now?
Happy Christmas and a very happy 4 new years.

With love from the Netherlands.

It is sad that there are sooooo many people wanting Obama to fail for their own idiotic reasons. These are the same people who supported Pailin after she continously made a fool of her self. If you don't like Obama fine, just shut up !!!!

HA,HA.HA........and JA,JA.JA......yeah, that's LOL in english and spanish! ......Becerra just made my day!

He somehow thinks trade issues will not be a focus for the new administration.Somehow I can't help but think that the kind of"head in the sand"approach to trade that has taken place for quite some time now and aided the globalists has played the major role in the economic crisis that the world finds itself in.

This is still a free country and we are still allowed to say "NO". He chose to say "NO" for whatever reason. Trust me, President-Elect Obama won't be in a corner crying because he said "NO". There are just too many more well, and perhaps better qualified people for that position!

John, I used to be a liberal and used to have hope. Unfortunately, I do not believe in fairy tales anymore. You see, I fled Africa and its "liberators". They used to tell us there: Democracy, unity, liberation blah-blah-blah! And some unskilled power-hungry maniac would come to power, after he convinced the West and the rest of the people that he brings HOPE. I am not saying Obama is that extreme, I am just saying HOPE is not enough to fix the challenges that we face, we need skill also. But hey, whatever.

Not everyone gets to be a key player in the Obama Administration. It's his choice if he doesn't want to play a role in it. I'm sure he's not the first person EVER to turn down a position in an administration. Hard to imagine that this guy might even LIKE his job being an elected representative of the people, more than he'd like working at the White House.

It has nothing to do with, " Someone said no to Obama! Don't you get to go to hell for denying the Messiah." Like my moron friend Andy just said.

Andy: You're on the wrong website!! You need to go where things are more FAIR & BALANCED over at FIXed NEWS where you'll be welcomed with open arms and closed minds!!

What I think is that Obama has ignored Latinos, and therefore they may be a little sore about it. Well, I am Latino myself and I totally understand Becerra's position; Obama owes Latino vote a lot, or may be EVERYTHING. He should have given Latino people better positions in his government.

It is a matter of choosing the best for the country, and for yourself, too and it has nothing to do with personal ambition or having something to hide.

obama is a scumbag therefore i would so no also

Who dares to say no to Obama, it is like disobedience to God or His commandments. Obama knows better the consequences of disobeying the Ten Commandments, as he is a Christian and a regular churchgoer.

It's more to it than him wanting to stay in Congress.

I think you have to deny him three times...

Obama likes to pick people from the Chicago area. The mayor of Chicago is going to be out of a job soon. All Obama has to do is pardon him and then place him in this position. After all the guy does have experience in wheeling and dealing.

Very funny the way you call the poster a fool, yet continually add an e to "wait". Keep talking...your picture is coming in loud and clear.

WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA. What's the deal with all the Just you wait and see, things will be bad going to go from bad to worse, all you stupid liberals you just don't understand WAAAAAAAAAAAAA and you you kids better get off of my lawn before I call the cops. Do you know who I am rant, rant, rant, adnauseum. You People Kill ME.

fefe, Why is it that just because he turned down Obama, he's automatically a racist. The only one playing the race card is YOU.

So what he said "NO". He probably knows he's got crap in his backpack and it will make it out of the bag. Understand this folks, whoever is asked to be in this administration is getting checked out from top to bottom.

You know why I really think folks are hating on Barack? Here is a good looking, tall, intelligent, “not angry” Black MAN who is charismatic and appealing to a vast majority. He is articulate, has a good looking wife and family. He excels at whatever he does, can adjust and think on his feet. Can strategize, compete, and out think some of the so called best. Oh and shall I say it again, he’s a Black Man. I have no idea why some are so surprised. This type has been around for ages. Music, inventions were not due to the white European race. So many ideas were stolen from Black Americans it’s ridiculous. The history books in our schools really do not tell the whole story. Let’s keep it real. The minority of folks who are not happy with Barack are simply not happy because INSPITE of all the bull and road blocks that were attempted he prevailed and very nicely I might add.

I say, I am really proud to be an American for the first time in my adult life!

Grow-up. You libs think it's hilarious when ANY conservative suffers ANY defamation, whether real or simply 'processed', but throw a fit when the tables are turned. Again, Grow up!

He is not qualified period or he has something in his closet.
Who is he to say no to such an offer? You make me lough on this blog. Who doesn't like pay increase or being on the national scene?
Even Jo the Stupid Plumber knows that.

To those on this and other blogs criticizing Obama when he hasn't even taken office yet, let's be honest and call a spade a spade – you don't like Obama either because you are a racist or you are a closed minded right wing fanatic with a cave man mentality. Bush has ruined this country to the point where rethuglicans can't even defend him any longer and yet you morons haven't even given Obama a chance and criticize him. RETHUGLICANS have ruined your country and you can think yourselves for that.

@ BJ Penn...Trust us all, the only cabinet position you will be offered is the Medicine cabinet...Go take a pill!!

Maybe he just wants to keep voting "Present" and getting paid.

This guy ain't no fool,he plans on being around after 2012–vary smart !!

THE GUY IS A CLOWN!!

That's great..I guess he won't be getting a Christmas card from the Obama's this year after that comment.

Who cares – Hey republicans Obama is president elect. Suck IT!!!!!

Who cares – Hey republicans Obama is president-elect. How does it FEEL?

Who cares!!!! – Hey republicans Obama is president elect. How does it FEEL?

His choice, his decision. If I were offered a presidential position and didn't feel like taking it, i wouldn't do it.

in the end this is actually good for Obama. No one should feel forced to take part in his administration, nor should anyone join his team if they don't feel comfortable with the job. nor should people join his team just to enhance their own resume for political or capital gain.

Well, it's good to see that rational decisions are being made, and not everyone is reacting all "OMG he picked MEEE" and actually thinking about the job at hand.

There is just far too much of that mushing when someone is offered a position.

Also, I think that Obama should consider someone with a proven track record of having a human soul for this position – like 'same old story' said at 11:20: " This guy makes millions for selling out this country to the globalists,why would he want a real job?" ; We don't want a lapdog of the global profit seekers to be there. We're trying to get rid of corporate government after all!

Myrna you are a racists nut! This was a chance for diversity in an area of a workforce that does come too often. Again, as someone has already mentioned if there is a lack of Latino presence DONT BLAME THE "BLACK PRESIDENT". Look in the mirror at the bigotry that is in you and others like you.

This is how each group of people advances, with tolerance, understanding, and respect. You take the best of all people and let that part shine. Don't put down Obama because he has achieve the ultimate. My goodness there are a lot of haters in the world, mostly right here in our very own backyards.

Shame on all of you.

c'mon CNN please filter the hate speech as in:
"latinos are..." "those people..."
from "fefe"

Dude, Obama won, you can shut off the divisive hate now.

When he gets accused of something you can switch on again.

old timer do you still waer your hood and gown in public or are you a punk

well everything always happen for a reason, my belive is that it's all going to play out well he probably isn't the best candidate for the job.

He's just steering clear from the shadiness. I don't blame him, wait to see what the fallout is from Blagojevich before lining up with the Shady Bunch.

i can't stand these negative posts about Obama being turned down and not wanting to work with him. Those are racists and yes im throwing the race card because now it more common in whites than it was in blacks. The man is trying to help the country and in turn, those negative anti Obamas on here don't even get it??? It sounds to me that they are uneducated in current events. I challenge those with the hate to see if you could do a better job. Why don't you stop making negative comments and start helping our president come up with solutions and ideas to fix our economy. Grow up!!!

It was his choice to make. Though I have to wonder if it had anything to do with the vetting process. He wouldn't be the first to decline based on the vetting process...

This is not news!!!!

So this guy doesn't want the job. So what! I've turned down jobs before and I can safely say that I would turn down Obama because I don't agree with his politcs. It doesn't mean I don't want him to be a success. It means that happiness is more important to me than working for Obama.

People need to quit being so hateful. Lighten up a bit. Show some kindness to those that may not think exactly like you. It might just make you feel good about yourself.

The job would have been a "priviledge" and "an opportunity of a lifetime" but he turned it down because "TRADE would not be a major focus" of the administration? What a lousy excuse. Something tells me that this guy is nervous about the vetting process. Got some skeleons in your closet, uh Bacerra??

Someone said no to Obama! Don't you get to go to hell for denying the Messiah.

Hey OLD TIMER:

Your comments are just uderline your name. Tlak about a stupid idiot of a person. If you could do better why didn't you run for President? Oh...waite maybe because it's your old ways of thinking. Grow up get a life and try to bring this country together...Oh Waite it's old fools like you that can't stand change or when someone does it BETTER than you.

I love Obama and obviously I voted for him but what the HELL is wrong with you people? You don't have to accept any position/job that is offered to you. I've turned down jobs before and remember it's a job.

Doesn't make him racist, radical, etc. it's his choice and we have that in America.

I do not like your new format. Please go back to the old one.

I see a lot of skeletons in this guys closet.I see a bed with the Chinese moneychangers.I see deals with the Clintons.

I do not like your new format. Please go back to the old one.

I do not like your new format. Please go back to the old one.

To think the President will have a cabinet full of the most qualified people(egad...a SCIENTIST as head of energy....what a concept) without an agenda that favors special business interests is such a delight. For a candidate to turn down a cabinet appointment only shows inegrity.....All you whiney cons can go take a long hike.....and don't come back....

At what point will Mr. Becerra realize he made a terrable mistake in turning down an offer by the "great himself" obama. What strategy will the "great one" use to make people understand.... you do not dismiss me...EVER.

Maybe he should pick Caroline, rumor is she wants to be involved all of a sudden.

M, you have a distorted view of us liberals. Many of us do not in our right minds take the problems of this country lightly. There is a world of a difference between between overconfidence and hopefulness.

I don't know this Becerra guy's reputation, credentials or what actually motivaes him, but he is making the right choice. It will be a long time before the US has need of a trade representative. All nations of the world, including China are pulling back on trade, not expanding it in times of economic collapse. And we all know the situation is only going to worsen into a depression. So let Becerra do as he proposes and give the job to someone else.

CK in Virginia – You wish!!!

This headline using the word "reject" makes it sounds like he is against Obama in some way. After reading the article, in no way does this person "reject" Obama, but he wants to keep his seat in Congress. Why do you use the nasty headline-grabbing words to lure people in, only to then print a perfectly innocuous story about this man who appears to like Obama very much, but simply chooses to keep his current job, which he likes very much also. But "saying NO to Obama" just gets you more interest, doesn't it??

Good for him!

What does he have to hide?

Saying "no" is one thing. Saying no because you don't think you'll get enough glory from it? Lame!

""I came to the conclusion that it would not be priority No. 1, and perhaps, not even priority No. 2 or 3,"

Right. So managing trade is not more important than preventing terrorism, heading off wars, or repairing the economy. That makes it only...INCREDIBLY IMPORTANT!

Thank God we won't have this loser taking care of it; Barack, please find an adult for this job.

This is news? Ya gotta do better than this, CNN!

Someone dared to refuse Obama...

All i got to say is that latinos are racist people too, and those people don't even like AA's anyway.

thats right cnn block my comments. see if i talked the type of rhetoric and crap night after night like sean hannity, neal [nazi] boortz or rushsheeda limpbraugh the secret service and the F.B.I. would be knocking down my door. block my comments out you haters. WHATS THE MATTER ; THE TRUTH HURTS?

don't worry B J Penn......you won't get the call

why would "trade" be number 1??

wouldnt it be the Economy, Energy Policy and National Security?

All these items are heavily dependent on trade!

But why would Obama offer the position if he didnt KNOW FOR SURE the guy would take it?? obviously the guy changed his mind!

The only bad choice Obama has made so far.

I guess he's trying ot make a name for himself for political purposes obviously. I can hear him saying it now, "I'm the only representative who refused a position in the administration."

fool

B F D

Obama needs to choose someone who understands the need to renegotiate trsde agreements to specify that imports to the US meet our health & safety standards and rthat imports pay the cost of adequate US inspection.

( To the reviewer – not a duplicate comment).

I'm glad he said no......I wouldn't what to be a part of Obama's administration either. You think Bush's was bad, just wait and see how the next four years play out. I guess Obama is not as well liked as he thought!!

lol. So he's too good for the job??
P.S. Any economist knows that trade is, always has been, and always will be an important factor in any administration. Becerra's just angry the position doesn't have as much camera time. Boo hoo.

"Do as your President says he needs you to do and ask questions later."

That's how Bush handled things, it's not what we need now.

And Mesa Mick....his name is Richardson, but he is still Latino. He was talking to his folks. No harm there.

oh my god. a dumocrat not wanting to do as high and mighty dumcrat wants. he should be keel huled.

Obama needs to choose someone who understands the need to renegotiate trsde agreements to specify that imports to the US meet our health & safety standards and rthat imports pay the cost of adequate US inspection.

If Bacerra turned the offer down, he should just shut up & continue his life in congress. He does not look like someone should be offered top priority job anyway. Who is Bacerra anyway. Overestimation of his own importance shines through. I am sure Bacerra would like to be THE secretart if energy or VP. LOL.

Trade not a big deal? Think China! Obviously, this guy has not done his homework!

I think he should offer it to Rep. David Wu of Oregon.

Thrtr id nothing wrong with unions and they have nothing against
fair trade and keeping jobs in this country by not selling out to china and god knows.
If it wouldn't be for unions you would be working 14 hrs a day und 7 days a week.
You are a typical capitalist.

Becerra things that job is not good enough for him and has higher ambitions, thats all.

@B J Penn December 17th, 2008 11:49 am ET

Obama is a bum I wouldn't want to work for him either. Change = Bad to worse

****************************************************************************
Yeah, he's such a bum that he got elected President of the United States of America.

Get over yourself. Silly Republitard.

"...he felt trade would not be a major focus in the Obama administration." Neither will a lot of other necessary policy issues because Comrade Obummer will be concentrating on the important stuff behind the scenes until it surfaces buried in some law - providing gay rights, indoctrinating pre-schoolers, strengthening the unions that undermined our largest companies and our education system, helping the trial lawyers, "listening" to radical Muslims so we don't offend them.....need I continue....

the first smart person on the block....i would not want to be picked by Obama for anything....... wait until the bottom drops out and falls directly on the people the this guy has picked.....You dont think for one minute that this guy is going to take any heat for his appointees do you

wait til it happens then we will see if the reporters that pick this j-- will report of his downfall {{{{{ JOHN KING ROLAND MARTIN BILL SCHIENDLER ]]]] you won't hear a peep out of these guys...the slanted C N N election coverage boys

As far as I'm concerned lawyers have ruined this country and guess where a lot of them are........... CONGRESS

It seems hard to believe considering how early we are in the cycle, but there is already a lot of Senate drama for the 2010 cycle with Tom Vilsack out in Iowa, Sink and Mongiardo inching towards a run in Florida and Kentucky, and Houston Mayor Bill White jumping in the Texas Senate race. (All details here).

The House of Representatives IS the "People's House", and with less republiCAN'TS perhaps the House will actually be that again. The fact that this man chooses to serve from that venue is his choice.Presidet-elect Obama will have the cooperation of Congress and a top-notch Cabinet.
Why all the cynisism?

Ron Ft. Myers thinks he's the people, but what he wants is not the majority's desire.

Basically this says more about Rep. Xavier Becerra. At least he is honest he doesn't want due to it not being the major focus for the incoming administration.

Good For Him for Standing Up and Just saying NO!!!!! Latinos Have a BIG Voice in this Country and I am glad He turned down the Position ! California is My Home State by the way !!!! At Least One Honest Politician Out there , You Rock...... I doubt very Much if Obama will do anything about Trade, Unfortunately that is NOT on his to do list... This Made My day, after all the Godawful selections Obama Has Made... Former Obama supporter in Wisconsin

Lol, at least he realizes how big the challenges are, and does not believe (like the rest of the delusional liberals) that "hip-ness" is sufficient to face it.

What an insult - way to go, Sparky!
If the Latino community starts complaining that there aren't more Hispanics at the Obama table, we'll know whose name to mention as shoving back at our new President the invitation for the opportunity of a lifetime.

Becerra knows better than to get tied up with an administration that will be involved in scandal for the next four years. Good for him.

Obama denied! That is just awesome......and has to humble a guy who has the most arrogant personality and biggest ego of anyone I have seen on television (yes...including Hollywood stars).

Obama will need many more of these denials to bring him back down out of the clouds to a level where he can relate to the American people.

I see globalism winning.I see millions of our jobs lost forever.I see only the rich getting richer and everyone in America making minimum wage or less.

Oh goodness, someone actually said "No" to the great man? Will the earth shake? How about a few plagues?

What, not a cushy enough job for you, Becerra? Or is it that you don't want to give up the benefits of being on the Ways and Means committee?

Pshaw.

Gosh, were all of you telling Xaviar to "do as the president tells you and don't ask questions" saying the same thing the last 8 years? You lined up like sheep for Obama when he ran and you'll do the same now that HE is president, not just for any president. As a result, you won't question Obama in the way you questioned Bush and the country will be worse off for not having learned that lesson.

He is right. Obama will ignore trade, to the long term detriment of the US economy. Becerra doesn't want to join the Carter II administration, that is understandable.

Trade will be important, in that getting trade deals done fairly so it benefits the USA as well as the other trading partner. It's real easy to make trade deals where we get shafted by every other country. Fixing the trade deficit is an important issue, and it's something Xavier is too chicken to try.

Go hide in congress while the big boys in the White House do the dirty work.

I think in our representative democracy that it's okay for someone to decline a job offer, even from the President. This isn't a summons to the palace, you know.

funny guy wants to be popular for himself

In other words, he can't serve the President and fight for sending jobs oversees, freebies for China and South America but not for the U.S. True republican!

Kinda makes you wonder what skeletons are in HIS closet........

Ron,

What is getting jammed down our throats that "all" of the people are against? If all of the people are against what our elected officials are doing, why does a majority keep, um, electing them.

If you want to make the case that people are ignorant of what their elected officials are doing or that they systematically misjudge what is in their own best interests, you may have a point. But the idea that people are actively opposed, makes no sense.

Oh the horror. Someone said no to "the one".....

Obama is a bum I wouldn't want to work for him either. Change = Bad to worse

His right to say no.
What's good about it though is that he didn't say it in Spanish to the whole country like Bill Richardson did when he accepted his job. Funny, I though English was the "unofficial" language of the US – don't you think Richardson was patronizing just a little bit to much? Or was he trying to make Latinos feel "proud" to be Americans by speaking Spanish to them? Somethimes PC makes me gag....

Hey America, time to open your wallets. If any of you who voted for BHO are stupid enough to believe that he will accomplish anything without your money, you are dreaming. Get ready to have your meager incomes become even more meager. America is getting exactly what she deserved.....and asked for....change!! It's just not going to be the change you expect!

Sounds more like sour grapes to me. Obama has to address trade issues if he expects to get the economy back on the right track. This guy seems to be saying: "What, me be the lowly trade rep for the U.S?" I was hoping you'd recognize my superior ego and appoint me Secretary of Everything I Consider Really Important."

Yeah Matt, do as your President tells you to do and ask questions later.

That is what the people of Germany said about Hitler 60 years ago.

Xavier you have got to be kidding me. Trade will not be a big deal in the next eight years? How do you say "no" to the President of the United States when he asks you to do something for him? Shame on you.

OK, so he basically said he didn't want to be trade secretary because he felt trade wouldn't be a major focus of Obama's administration, i.e., that if he took the position he wouldn't be getting enough spotlight? Loser. Do as your President says he needs you to do and ask questions later.

What does he really want to be? Is he sincere or else?

Well everyone can't be on Barack's team! At least he was honest in telling everyone he thinks he deserves a higher position... BUT I don't think a U.S. Trade Rep is a low position considering all the happenings going on with the Free Trade Agreement. The bus will keep on moving...

Becerra is probably right. This administration won't focus on trade because the unions are knee-jerk reflexively against trade. Obama is going to need to educate the unions, and the public, about the value and importance of trade. If he doesn't, and the lefties in Congress bend over for the unions, heaven help the economic consequences to the US and the world.

That's ok there are other that will be glad to except this post.

I'm guessing he did not want a pay cut.

Nothing wrong with setting your priorities....
Glad you for change....we taxpayers are too!

"He felt trade would not be a major focus in the Obama administration." Basically, the job is not important enough for him...LOL. Gotta love the honesty.

Oh well, can't win them all....Next.

He joins all the candidates for leading the CIA.

Who wants that job knowing that Eric Holder is going to prosecute anyone who hasn't resigned.

No wonder the CIA is running ads on TV for 'Employment Opportunities'.

People's house? The people are all against much of what we're getting jammed down our throats and our elected officials do not seem to care.

Question:

How thick do you have to be?

Smartest decision this man has ever made.

Thats too bad. I want to say that the Drudge report is a disgrace and that Matt should grow up-he is a disgrace to civilized society – To show Barack at the top of his page with a cigarette in his mouth or whatever it is –shame shame on you--Matt what were you doing at that young age because you arent doing much good as a grown adult. You are a negative man with a very small...........mind.

This guy makes millions for selling out this country to the globalists,why would he want a real job?

I guess he's got something to hide too!