Barack Obama has spent the last few weeks creating his cabinet, a group of individuals who will help him to further his ability to be a good president. He is putting together a group that will not only challenge his ideas, but think for themselves. President-Elect Obama is busy creating the image of a leader who is strong enough to listen and acknowledge those who disagree with him. Though some may question the wisdom of appointing Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State because of the intense rivalry he had with her during the primary season. But there are also other reasons, like the cultural differences between men and women in the Middle East and how important communications between the Middle East and the United States are at this critical period; especially because of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and the tensions with Iran. The appointment of Robert Gates, who has served President Bush, came as a surprise. However, it is conceivable that his appointment only further credits Mr. Obama’s attempt to surround himself with different view points.

The Republican Party, on the other hand, has been floundering since the election and has been desperate for leadership…but let’s talk about that next week.