Senator Clinton on "Meet the Press"

Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-NY) was on NBC's Meet the Press this morning, along with Senator John McCain (R-AZ). As members of the Senate Armed Forces Committee, they're in Baghdad meeting with Iraq's current prime minister, deputy prime minister and finance minister, presumably to play a part in the Iraqi transiton to its new government.

I've always vaguely admired Senator Clinton, but found it hard to warm up to her. I saw a new Hillary today....one that has probably been there all along, but one not evident amid her very public marriage, her healthcare fiasco ten years ago, and her occasional tactless remark.

She was well-spoken and well-informed, collegial and confortable and immensely leader-like. She was.....presidential. The thought ocurred to me...I could have confidence in that leader. She and moderator Tim Russert touched on the subject of withdrawing US troops from Iraq:

"MR. RUSSERT: Then you would disagree with any call for immediate withdrawal of some troops or a specific timetable?

SEN. CLINTON: Well, Tim, I understand the feelings behind that call. I mean, there is a lot of reason when we're back at home to argue about this policy. But at this point in time, I think that would be a mistake. I don't believe we should tie our hands or the hands of the new Iraqi government. Now obviously, as this government has stood up and takes responsibility, there may come a time when it decides for its own internal reasons that we should set such a deadline and withdrawal agenda. But right now I think it would be a mistake."(Read the broadcast manuscript here.)

It's not an answer that I like, but I found myself listening to her. Able to be persuaded by her. Able to trust her.

Senator Clinton may, indeed, be one to watch for the 2008 Presidential race.