by Cristina Aguilar Friar

Created on: November 15, 2008

Hillary Clinton became much more popular as a candidate than when she was a First Lady. On paper she is more than worthy and capable of becoming Secretary of State, but she may become a liability to the new president rather than someone who can enhance this new era. Senatory Clinton has extensive international experience. She graduated from Yale Law School. She has a legal background which, combined with her international reputation and her affiliation with a husband who is still quite popular abroad, are also positives.

However, throughout the primary campaign, both Hillary and Obama were very critical of each other's experience on foreign policy issues. In the campaign, Obama drove the idea that a vote for Hillary would bring on the same old politics of the past. Even though her husband is still pretty popular abroad and she could bring a lot to the office, domestically, the failure with the health care system she tried to put forth, and the scandals of the Clinton administration may come to haunt the new president and his cabinet.

Another thing that could hinder progress if Hillary is chosen for this position is the "Bill Clinton" factor. She likely to face questions about the global network her husband has created with his foundation, speaking engagements, and business ventures. Bill Clinton runs and heads his foundation which sponsors international development, but some of the donations he's received have been questioned by the American media and Republicans.

Early this year, a Canadian mining tycoon, Frank Giustra donated $131 million to the Clinton foundation to create a program of selling discounted AIDS drugs. Guistra won the right to invest in a state-run uranium project and both Clinton and Gistra denied the two deals were connected. But questions about that deal, the foundation and other business dealings are expected at the Senate confirmation hearing if Hillary Clinton is tapped. The American people don't have time to go through more hearings and scrutiny of the Clintons. If she is chosen she would have to disclose international financial documents. That may not be in her best interest in the long run.

There are others to consider for Secretary of State who may be a safer choice and more appropriate to the task. Senator John Kerry is worthy consideration because he knows a lot of the world, and speaks several different languages. He is also a veteran, with a full metal jacket of honors to prove his understanding of the military and the threats that face us around the world. Gov. Bill Richardson is also experienced in foreign relations and was one of the first Clinton supporters to turn his back on the Clintons and endorse Obama, thus insuring the Hispanic vote.

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