REPORT: OBAMA CONSIDERING HILLARY FOR SECRETARY OF STATE

New York Post

By CHARLES HURT

WASHINGTON - We may soon be calling Hillary Rodham Clinton “Madame Secretary.”

The New York senator and former first lady is being considered for secretary of state by President-elect Barack Obama - an appointment that would go a long way toward healing the wounds left by their bruising Democratic primary battle.

Two Obama advisers confirmed Clinton is under serious consideration, according to NBC News’ Andrea Mitchell.

Adding to the intrigue, Clinton was seen aboard a flight to Obama’s hometown of Chicago today, but aides insisted she was on personal business.

Officially, the Obama campaign has declined to discuss any of the administration positions that have not yet been filled and made public.

Other Democrats believed to be in the running for the post are New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson and Sen. John Kerry, the 2004 nominee for president.

Another widely discussed contender is former Senate Democratic Leader Tom Daschle, who is close to Obama and has many ties to his staff.

But the choice of Hillary makes sense: Obama and his transition team have made clear their willingness to build an unorthodox Cabinet that includes many Republicans and, perhaps, a certain Democrat who might help unify the party.

The notion of Clinton as secretary of state was floated earlier in the year, when Democrats were trying to think of ways to lure her out of the bruising race against Obama.

Since the election, the buzz over Hillary has been building.

“The pick of the former presidential contender and Senate Armed Services Committee member would go a long way toward healing any remaining divisions within the Democratic Party after the divisive primaries,” DC gossip writer Al Kamen blogged on the Web site of the Washington Post today.

“Also, Clinton has long been known for her work on international women’s issues and human rights. The former first lady could also enhance Obama’s efforts to restore US standing amongst allies worldwide.”

Obama’s staff said last night no decision has been made.

Also unclear is whether Clinton would even want the position. It would be a considerable downgrade from the White House post she has had her heart set on for the past few years.

Others wondered last night if the Obama camp - which is very disciplined about unwanted leaks - is even serious about floating her name or simply trying to compliment her by suggesting she’s in the running.