CHICAGO: U.S. President-elect Barack Obama confirmed on Monday that former campaign rival Hillary Rodham Clinton is his choice for Secretary of State. Mr. Obama also announced that Robert Gates is to remain as Defence Secretary, making President George W. Bush’s Pentagon chief his own as he seeks to wind down the U.S. role in Iraq.
Team unveiled: U.S. President-elect Barack Obama, flanked by Secretary of State nominee Hillary Clinton and National Security Advisor nominee General James Jones, at a press conference in Chicago on Monday.
At a news conference, Mr. Obama also introduced the former NATO top commander, General James Jones, as White House National Security Adviser, former Justice Department official Eric Holder as Attorney-General and Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano as Secretary of Homeland Security.
The announcements rounded out the top tier of the team that will advise the incoming chief executive on foreign and national security issues in an era marked by wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and terrorism around the globe.
“The time has come for a new beginning, a new dawn of American leadership to overcome the challenges of the 21st century,” said Mr. Obama as his Cabinet picks stood behind him on a flag-draped stage.
“We will strengthen our capacity to defeat our enemies and support our friends. We will renew old alliances and forge new and enduring partnerships.”
Mr. Obama said his appointees “share my pragmatism about the use of power, and my sense of purpose about America’s role as a leader in the world.”
Mr. Gates’ presence in Chicago made him a visible symbol of the transition in power from the Bush administration to one headed by Mr. Obama who will take office on January 20.
He also appointed campaign foreign policy aide Susan Rice as his Ambassador to the United Nations. Mr. Obama said he would make her a member of the Cabinet, an increase in stature from the Bush era.
Mr. Obama introduced Ms. Clinton first, saying of his former presidential rival, “She possesses an extraordinary intelligence and toughness, and a remarkable work ethic.”
She told Mr. Obama, in a brief turn at the lectern, “I am proud to join you ... and may God bless you and our great country.” — AP