Democratic Chatter 11-14-2008

George Wenschhof

Senator Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State? - maybe, but don't carve it in stone just yet. Yesterday, the rumors began flying as it was reported Senator Clinton was in Chicago for private meetings. These rumors have since been confirmed that the meeting between the two did take place yesterday morning. Some of the other candidates thought to be under consideration are Governor Bill Richardson (D-NM), Senator John Kerry (D-Mass.), former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle and former Senator Chuck Hagel (R-Neb.).

The selection of Clinton by Obama may also soothe wounds from the heated Democratic primary election. Politco.com has more here.

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President-elect Obama continues efforts to unite - On Monday, he is scheduled to meet with Senator John McCain(R-Az.) to discuss ways to make government more effective and efficient. Incoming Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel and Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) will also attend the meeting. Read more here.

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The election of Obama as President brings people together - Gallup has run polls after the 2000, 2004 and 2008 elections asking respondent's if they see the country more divided than in recent years. After the 2000 election, the number was 64% and after the 2004 election , the number was 72%. The just completed poll now shows that figure as down to 57%. Gallup.com has more here.

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Obama to resign Illinois senate seat Sunday - the president-elect announced this decision yesterday. This is a good move as there is no sense in having him get caught up in lame duck congressional going-ons while he is waiting to be sworn in as president. This will also put some pressure on Illinois Governor Blagojevich to appoint the successor. I say the odds on favorite is Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. (D-Ill.).

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CBS "60 Minutes" to interview Obama today - Steve Kroft will conduct the interview to be broadcast Sunday. It will be aired at 7:00 PM ET - check your local listings for the time in your area. The Washington Post has more here.

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Former Maryland Lt. Governor Michael Steele announces he wants to be the next chair of the Republican National Committee - with the Republican Party reeling from a major 2-1 electoral drubbing in the Presidential election many candidates have emerged for this position. TheHill.com has more here.

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