Who would be Obama’s Chief of Staff?
Rahm Emanuel, President Barack Obama’s Chief of Staff, is coming in for a rough side as the President’s record itself is assailed from different perspectives. As this article in the “Observer” explains, Emanuel is being attacked from both angles: on the one hand, there are those who say he is too conservative and has let down the President but, on the other hand, others argue that Obama is in so much trouble because he hasn’t accepted more of Emanuel’s advice.
Ironically, as we are reminded in this article from “The New Republic”, Rahm Emanuel was initially very reluctant to take on the task. After all, he was well-placed to become Spreaker of the House – the first Jewish holder of the position – and keen to spend more time with his family.
Enthusiasts for “The West Wing” – which certainly includes me – will recall that being Chief of Staff to the fictional President Bartlett – another liberal Democrat – caused Leo McGarry to have a heart attack which followed his resignation and then another heart attack which killed him.
Hopefully Emanuel and Obama can pull through these difficulties, starting with securing of legislation on health care reform.