[Skybird]

A chief of staff is meant to cover the back of a president and keep it free from personal unloyalty, to get his demands for info, proceedings and personell being processed in time, so that the president must not waste time with figuring out questions of methodology, but can focus on the substance of issues. A chief of staff HAS to be an attack dog, at least a dog with a terrifying display of teeth and the ability to bite right through the bone - if needed. Lord Vader would be my pick for this special job. Compared to that, an experienced person like Obama'S choice, who already knows the job and is described as being well-linked in washington and in the structures of bureaucracy as well, is a harmless but still competent choice. Obama does not wish to waste time with needing to train his staff once he is in office, the transition should be smooth and fast. By what I read about the man - good choice, I say, also somebody who does not accept to be intimidated easily. When Hillary Hlionton tried to fire him because of him using tough language too often, he is said to have snapped back at her, saying that this is not up t her to decide, but the president. Bill kept him. - I would consider to keep Gates for defense. The rumour of Schwarzenegger for environment or energy also is not a bad option, I think. Hillary Clinton for health and social things, reform of the health system is an unfinished vision of her and her husband, thus she may show welcomed - and needed - enthusiasm to fight for it. Kerry for foreign policy is something I can live without. Before Kerry, better Powell.