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Politico, which cast some doubts on whether Hillary Clinton would even want to be President-elect Obama's Secretary of State yesterday, now reports, "Negotiations between the Clintons and President-elect Obama’s transition team are rapidly moving toward a formal offer of secretary of State" for Clinton, with an announcement expected within the next seven days. And "a key part of satisfying Obama’s vetting team, former President Bill Clinton is open to giving up foreign sources of income if she becomes secretary of State, according to a close friend." Bill Clinton has made a lot after leaving office (their joint tax returns showed income of $107 million between 2000 and 2007). The NY Times adds he "has agreed to release the names of some major donors to his charitable foundation and...would subject future foundation activities and paid speeches to an ethics review," and if his wife serves, "He would also cede day-to-day responsibility for his foundation... and would alert the State Department to his speaking plans and any new income sources."
Bill Clinton Gets Involved in Secretary of State Talks
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I think Bill averages $140K per speech.
What does he say that is worth that kind of money?
It's really big of him to give up all that future income. I mean really how can one live on just $107 mill in these times?
He should hold out for a raise for Hillary. Don't give in Bill.
Look at all the money he will save in income taxes over the next few years.
They're BAAAACK....
^
...the drama has returned.
I'm not a big Hillary fan, but my question is who is the best candidate for the Secretary of State position?
Apparently, there might be some skeletons in Bill Richardson's closet and John Kerry has the charm and charisma of a insurance underwriter (no offense to insurance underwriters). I haven't really heard the names of anyone else. Who am I missing?
"What does he say that is worth that kind of money?"
The mere presence of a former U.S. President can fill a room. If you want a particular segment of business executives to attend a meeting or banquet, there is no better draw. Say what you will about Bill Clinton, he's not boring. On the other hand the new former president-to-be, Dubya, can't master a subject the way his predecessor could. Even if he could, his poor communication skills would betray him. Clinton is worth every penny he gets.
No way Bill will stick with any promises he makes to the Obama team. That's the sad part about Obama's team trying to do good by Hillary and making her an offer. I hope it won't be a decision Obama regrets.
Before Hillary Clinton can become Secretary of State:
1) Bill Clinton must provide a complete listing of all donors to his foundation and presidential library.
2) Both Bill and Hillary Clinton need to clearly indicate that any and all private financial dealings and other interactions with foreign leaders are now over, unless specifically authorized by the US government.
3) Hillary Clinton needs to publically discuss exactly what her approach to the job of Secretary of State would be and clearly indicate how she would be able to perform that job without any conflict of interest whatsoever.
If Bill and Hillary Clinton are unwilling or unable to comply with the above requirements or similar ones provided by the Obama administration, Hillary Clinton should not become Secretary of State. The ball is in the Clinton’s court.
^ You missed one: Obama has to pay down Hillary's $20 million campaign debt. That's their counter offer and that's what's holding up this Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade float.