The New Nation - Internet Edition

Agency, Washington

There is increasing speculation about Hillary Clinton's possible appointment as secretary of state.

Reports are coming out that a serious vetting process is under way to determine the possible pitfalls of such an appointment.

Obama's team is unlikely to be looking for an excuse to shoot down the idea, but rather genuinely making sure all the bases are covered before any firm jobs offer or announcements are made.

While the story continues to be carried forward based on unnamed Democratic officials quoted in the US media, it is probable that Obama would have found a way to quash it if there was not some truth to it.

"No one has called to say 'Don't go too far on this'," said James Carville, a long-time Clinton friend, quoted in the Washington Post.

Other names have been mentioned over the last few weeks for the position of Secretary of State, such as Senator John Kerry, from Massachusetts, who ran for president in 2004.

Bill Richardson, New Mexico's governor, even went to Chicago last week for talks with President elect Barack Obama, reportedly about the position of secretary of state.

Former Secretary of State and Nobel prize winner Henry Kissinger said it would be an "outstanding" appointment.

It is likely to heal the rift inside the Democratic party caused by a bruising primary campaign.

By giving Mrs Clinton a top cabinet job, Obama would come across as a confident leader, not afraid to reach out to rivals and surround himself with strong personalities.

The US media is full of stories about how Obama may be seeking to create a "team of rivals", bringing in his opponents to promote creative debate inside his team, much the same way that Abraham Lincoln did.

Obama made a reference to that style of governance in an interview with CBS's Katie Couric earlier this year

Furthermore, the economic crisis will be a priority for Obama at the start of his presidency. But with the US involved in two wars, in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the whole world seemingly waiting for the US to engage with it, foreign policy cannot be put on the back burner.

The former First Lady would be able to hit the ground running. She would have instant international stature and recognition as secretary of State, and world leaders would welcome her.

She also has the needed experience, knowledge and contacts that would allow Obama to rely on her while he's busy fixing the country's economy.