Tammy Duckworth Being Pushed For Veterans Affairs Secretary

A grassroots effort is underway for Barack Obama to appoint Tammy Duckworth, a veteran of the Iraq War and onetime congressional candidate, as Secretary of Veterans' Affairs in his incoming administration.

Democratic-leaning veterans groups are pushing the appointment among activists and reporters, even launching a petition drive to get Duckworth into the administration.

"If Tammy was offered the Secretary of the VA, she'd excel at it," said Jon Soltz, the head of the veterans group VoteVets.org and one of the leading advocates for a Duckworth appointment. "She uniquely understands the issues facing not just older generations of veterans, but our newest veterans as well."

Indeed, Duckworth would be well situated to take on the post. Not just because she has served in Iraq (where she lost both her legs) and currently heads the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs, but also because she has strong ties to Obama's inner circle.

During her unsuccessful 2006 run for Congress, Duckworth employed many of the individuals who played prominently roles on the Democratic presidential campaign. David Axelrod, Obama's chief strategist, was an adviser to Duckworth. Rahm Emanuel, Obama's incoming chief of staff, was one the loudest voices encouraging Duckworth to run. (Emanuel was, at the time, head of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee). Sen. Dick Durbin, one of Obama's closest colleagues in the Senate, encouraged Duckworth's entry into the congressional race. And Jon Carson, Obama's National Field Director, actually ran Duckworth's campaign. Duckworth was even given a speaking slot on Wednesday night of the Democratic convention.

All this, of course, is insider wheeling-and-dealing. Duckworth brings qualifications to the post that extend well beyond the personal and political connections. And she could very well earn the appointment on these merits alone.

"You think about probably the best head of the VA we've ever had, and that was Max Cleland, who came home wounded from Vietnam, and was deeply involved in the veterans system in Georgia, then brought that experience to Washington," said Soltz. "Tammy is similar to Max in many respects, and I think what she brings to the table is too valuable to leave out in Illinois."

Comments

[llisa]

I'd go for that idea! You show 'em, girl!

[majorteddy]

Meet the first woman president of the USA.

[GrainOSand]

She ain't no Palin. Mrs. Duckworth gives me goose bumps. What a beautiful person she is. It is easy to project beauty when the sun is shining. She projects it from a position where most (man or woman) would only know darkness and that not beautiful to behold. She is an example of the highest order. Her desire to live simply evaporates the intentions of nefarious minds planting bombs to spill blood and take lives. Unfortunately, Mrs. Duckworth was caught up in Bush's war. Fortunately for us, she is a shining example of how we might distance ourselves from the ugliness of that war and come out better and stronger for the effort if not scarred and bruised. Her story is a great American story. Not just because of her service but because of how she continues to serve after paying such a heavy price for military service.

[rose3030]

You write beautifully and persuasively. I never understood why she didn't win that congressional race, but perhaps the best for her--and our country--is yet to come.

[ReddzVoice]

BRAVO!

Peace and love...

[Hoslo2]

She is born in Bangkok, Thailand. Sorry but she cannot become president..

[slbailey1]

If here parents are USA citizens, she is a USA citizen no matter where in the world she was born.

[gnarlstone]

I can not think of a more appropriate appointment for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

I would be overjoyed if she is placed in that office.

[naschkatze]

She would be excellent.

[NeoLiberal]

The emotional links she may bring to the Dept of VA are strong.

However, let's ensure we review adminstrative qualifications as well.

With all due respect, Bush did make some appointments out of emotional or political ties, without regard for qualifications, skills or competencies to run their respective agencies.

No disrespect toward Ms. Duckworth. If she's qualified, then EXCELLENT pick.

[VOTER]

Goggle her biography.

She is more than qualified.

IL.AirForceVet/Vietnam

[eddiervc]

She would be the perfect choice! Do it!

[Zhonni]

She should get it. She is my pick.

[forthepeople1]

Perfect Choice. No one better!!!!

[mamak]

Me too.....Tammy for VA Sec! I felt a sense of pride and passion in her fpor veterans during the DNC speech....almost like a mother guarding her broods....

[tbirdalum]

As a vet, she's got my vote, if I could vote for her.


Yes, We Did, O

[LeeCalif]

Obama staff : Listen to VoteVets.org !!

[Emerald1943]

I know of no one who could do the job better! Tammy is truly an inspiration to us all! Let's support her selection to this important post!

[kymlosang]

Tammy Ducksworth is an inspiration to us all. She has courage, conviction and valor. I do hope she is given this extraordinary opportunity that I am certain she would excel in.

[StillIRise]

I second the motion ... AND the emotion as well. Tammy Duckworth would be an extraordinary choice!

[LeLoup]

Any other choice would feel like a let down of the veterans.
Awesome choice IMO.

[guitrman]

Tammy Duckworth would be an excellent choice and would do an excellent job. imho

Obama would do himself, and us, proud with this selection.