President Barack Obama has named his new National Security Adviser in what is being dubbed by many as a major foreign policy shuffle. The post now held by Susan Rice used to belong to Tom Donilon. Ms. Rice’s current post at the UN has been given to Samantha Power who is now with the National Security Council. Both Rice and Power are the President’s long-time confidantes.
The appointments of Susan Rice and Samantha Power confirm an observable pattern in the President’s decision-making process as he marches on his second term in office. He is choosing longtime allies for key posts and so far no outsiders have been allowed in the inner circle.
Unexpected
The unexpected appointment was announced by Pres. Obama at the White House Rose Garden flanked by the three officials. The President has described the portfolio of the national security adviser as one that encompasses “literally the entire world.” He views the job as one of the most demanding. Pres. Obaman’s choice of Rice is seen as an impending shift in the foreign policy of his administration.
No need for Senate confirmation
US Ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice will assume her new position when Mr. Donilon steps down one month from now. Her appointment does not require confirmation from the Senate, unlike other government appointments. In response, Rice committed herself to prioritizing the advancement of global American leadership and promoting values that are dear to Americans.
The consummate public servant
President Obama only has good words to describe his newest appointee Susan Rice, referring to her as “the consummate public servant.” He also described her as tough, fearless, and trusted. Ms. Rice served the President’s team in his first presidential campaign. Pres. Obama expressed full confidence in his appointment, saying that she is pragmatic and passionate. He added that he was absolutely thrilled to have Ms. Rice in his national security team.
The National Security Adviser
Tom Donilon’s current position is viewed by some as more influential than the Secretary of State. One of the reasons for this is that the national security adviser has daily access to President Obama. From the moment she assumes the position, Rice is now in charge of settling disputes between agencies. She will also be giving the President a hand in charting the administration’s course on world affairs.
Republican sentiment
Republicans have not relented on criticizing Rice for her response to the US consulate attack in Benghazi in Libya on September 11, 2012. They were disapproving of the way by which she handled televised interviews after the US embassy staff were attacked. The Republicans blocked her impending appointment to the post of Secretary of State due to controversies surrounding the said event. President Obama appointed John Kerry instead of Susan Rice to succeed Hillary Rodham Clinton.
The Grand Old Party accused Susan Rice of giving Americans misleading information on the Benghazi attack. However, it was proven with official documents that she had not much input at all and the talking points were put together after an inter-agency process that was overseen by Washington.
Photo Credit: Official US State Department photo of Susan Rice
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