Thoughts On The Transition

I have been following news of Barack Obama's transition plans closely, and I am feeling very optimistic about many of his decisions. MSNBC.com is reporting today that Obama has announced a plan to "to save or create 2.5 million jobs by investing billions of dollars to rebuild roads and bridges, modernize schools and develop alternative energy sources and efficient cars." As I read this, my mind screamed "Yes! Finally, a reasonable solution: create jobs and stimulate the economy by rebuilding the country's long-neglected infrastructure." (OK, so my mind screams odd things sometimes.) Of course, huge, government-run projects usually end up costing much more money than they should; I'd like to see if the Obama administration can implement these plans cost-effectively. The appointment of Timothy Geithner as treasury secretary and Lawrence Summers as head of the National Economic Council is also encouraging. Both are experienced and qualified economic advisers.
But most of all, I'm excited about the appointment of Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State. As readers of this blog know, I'm a Hillary fan, and I'm always happy to see women elected or appointed to powerful positions. I think that she has the know-how and the connections to help repair the damage done to our foreign relations by the Bush administration. I am worried, though, that in her drive to prove herself, she will put too much pressure on Israel to give up land for an illusory "peace". Unless Israel's government is being led by a strong and pragmatic Prime Minister (and that hasn't happened in a while), Israel might allow itself to be pushed against the wall. That is one reason why it is so important that Israelis choose wisely in the upcoming election.