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COLUMNISTS
TODAY'S STORIES
15.05.2008
Chief of Staff Daschle?


Yglesias mentions talk of Daschle as a possible Obama chief of staff. It's an intriguing idea. Yes, Daschle had a mixed record as Senate Democratic leader, failing to stop the Bush income tax cut and backing the 2002 Iraq war resolution. But a chief of staff doesn't make policy. And Daschle always an effective organizer and manager whose gentle, low-key style probably plays better in a behind-the-scenes role anyway. Certainly he would be a real asset to Obama's Capitol Hill outreach efforts. 

An added bonus is that Daschle himself has served as a staffer--he was a senior aide to South Dakota Senator Jim Abourezk.

One downside: Daschle's wife is a longtime aviation industry lobbyist, and Daschle has his own ties to the world of DC influence-peddling that Obama wants to banish from his White House (although I'm not sure Daschle has ever been an registered lobbyist).

--Michael Crowley

Posted: Thursday, May 15, 2008 2:30 PM with 4 comment(s)

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liberal reformer said:

How about Barney Frank as chief of staff? His long - time district would be bereft of a great congressman but they would elect a replacement. His negotiating skills have been lauded here at TNR as of late. Let's hear it for Barney.

May 15, 2008 3:28 PM

WoodyBombay said:

Barney is waiting out Ted Kennedy.

I like Daschle in spite of himself. He could be a good fit in a job that doesn't require any public appearances.

May 15, 2008 4:24 PM

jobeek2 said:

So, umm....

who's the girl?

May 16, 2008 11:21 AM

kyoung said:

Leon Panetta

May 16, 2008 12:35 PM

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