by Jayne Webb

Created on: August 27, 2009   Last Updated: September 01, 2009

Known for his politically incorrect public statements, like the diplomatically problematic frankness of his recent comments on Russia, Vice President Biden is not being used in a widely visible way in the media arena. But behind the scenes, given his long-standing relationships domestically and foreign policy savvy from his tenure in the Senate, Biden can and will play a critical role on two immediate fronts. During Obama's vacation, Biden has been quietly working Senate relationships on health care reform. More significantly, he has also been the one assigned the essential task of political reconciliation in Iraq, a war that cannot be won by military means alone. Hence, Biden should not be described as forgotten, but rather more aptly termed a "hidden asset" who could very well be an ace in President Obama's pocket.

Health care reform has stalled among the blue dog democrats in the House, which Pelosi might be able to reel in, but the more difficult challenge may be in the Senate. The right is standing in firm opposition given the disgruntled public being fueled by a misinformation campaign of special interests and those on the right positioning themselves for re-emergence as the anti-Democrat choice in providing checks and balances. The unfortunate passing of Senator Kennedy leaves the Democrats slightly vulnerable without the 60 vote filibuster-proof majority. Pending the outcome of the late Senator's request to have an interim declared in Massachusetts until the special election in 5 months, the Vice President has reportedly been working on the task to push health care reform during President Obama's vacation. Moderate Senate Democrats are also pushing the co-op rather than public option. Next, factor in the urgency that the reform has to take place in an odd year given the ramifications of an election year battle. Biden could be essential should the Administration opt for the so-called "nuclear" option of Democrats only and possibly in attaching health care to budget legislation for a simple majority vote. He is in a great position to place pressure on moderate Senators and dangle potential payback in budget projects given long-standing relationships and his unique voice influencing Obama's ear.

Long asserting moral leadership and sound judgement on Iraq, Biden has been assigned the task of political reconciliation in wrapping up the conflict. Who could forget among the field of Democratic hopefuls when Biden stood alone on the debate stage defending his

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