A lot has happened to Hillary Clinton over the past year. She was the first woman to run a serious campaign for the democratic ticket for the White House. Then, later in the year, Clinton was beaten for President Barack Obama’s vice president choice by Senator Joe Biden. Although it appears that Clinton had bad luck last year, she is starting 2009 with a new position and new possibilities for her political career.
On January 21, Clinton was sworn in as the 67th Secretary of State of the United States. The appointment by Obama makes Clinton his chief foreign affairs adviser. Yet, while Clinton didn’t break any glass ceilings with her new position, she is certainly bringing a unique background and different life experiences to the office.
The list of female Secretaries of State is short, yet both women, Madeleine Albright and Condoleezza Rice, have set high standards for Clinton to live up to. Clinton will be dealing with new and continuing problems with the United States’ foreign affairs. As Obama begins to stretch his new political muscle in reaching out to strengthen ties with other nations, Clinton will be in the forefront of reaching that objective.
“I went to her senate confirmation hearing,” Carrie Potter, senior journalism major, said. “She radiated calm and composer. She was so assured.”
These qualities that have been perfected over her time as senator and former First Lady have only enhanced her appeal as Secretary of State.
“I think this fits her well,” Potter said. “I’m glad he appointed her to this seat and not another. I think that her experience can only benefit her and indirectly benefit us.”
Her main goal, according to the U.S. Department of State, will be to open discussions with U.S. ministers and consuls abroad. Clinton’s role will be crucial, as she will be the major representative for U.S. foreign policy and the head advisor to Obama as he determines the direction of foreign affairs.
“She deserves a shot considering she was his opponent,” Melissa May, sophomore intelligence major, said. “She should be able to step into the pace easily.”
