2008: Secretary Of Defense Reed?

It's obviously way too early to predict election results in 2008. But that doesn't stop me. Should a Democrat get elected in '08, I'm prepared to make an admittedly premature and bold prediction about a possible Democratic cabinet level position (probably one I have no business making - again, that's not going to stop me). Should a Democrat get elected President, I would not at all be surprised if you see Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI) nominated to the top civilian position in the Pentagon, Secretary of Defense. Here's a disclaimer: I'm from RI, am familiar with Reed's work, and have met him several times - so am I biased? Yeah, probably. But I'm not the only one who thinks this.

Here's some biographical info on Reed: He's a West Point graduate (the only one currently in the Senate), reached the level of Captain while serving with the Army Rangers, and currently serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee (he is the ranking member on the Armed Services Emerging Threats Subcommittee). While many outside of Washington and/or Providence may not be familiar with his work, those who are know that he is the real deal.

I've noted his rising stature within the Democratic party, particularly after Rep. Murtha unveiled his proposal to gradually draw down our presence in Iraq. After Murtha's revelation, the Democrats needed a person to speak on behalf of the party that could not labeled as a defeatist and could speak realistically about Iraq. And who have they turned to, time and again since mid-November? Sen. Reed.

Reed has been described as a "go-to guy on all matters of policy," particularly military/national security related issues. In a recent Rhode Island Monthly article, local journalist Jim Taricani describes a scene from the Armed Services Committee:

Three senators are clumped together: Democrats Ted Kennedy of Massachusetts and Clinton of New York, and Republican John McCain of Arizona. The senatorial huddle is waiting for its quarterback. When they spot Reed walking in the room, the huddle loosens, and three of the nation's most powerful politicians welcome the go-to guy on defense issues. Reed counsels his players. They listen attentively, nodding their heads as if agreeing to the plan.

If that account doesn't convince you, consider this, from the same article:

There are many people in and out of Washington who think that Reed's steady climb up the public career ladder has only just begun. Retired General Barry McCaffrey is one of them. This hard-nosed Army officer, who is still consulted by the Pentagon, has the utmost respect for Reed, and [says the following]..."I think that Jack Reed is one of the five people in the United States who ought to be President."

Yeah, that's right. One of the five people; not one of the five Democrats, but people. Whether a liberal from Rhode Island could get elected is another issue entirely. But that's not what McCaffrey was talking about. Based solely on merit and not political realities, he thinks that Reed would make a superb candidate.

In addition, many of Reed's West Point classmates and Annapolis contemporaries are now serving as the nation's military leaders in the Pentagon. Reed has unique contacts and therefore insight into all matters military and therefore, as Sen. McCain has said, "Jack sees things in Iraq that a lot of us don't get to see." Here's more, from The Hill:

But Democrats say his mix of military background, dedication to policy and lack of any obvious ambition for higher office lend credibility to his arguments on Iraq. It is a combination that sharply contrasts with the personas of many Democrats who have chosen to engage in the debate over the war.

That analysis is spot on. Reed has repeatedly denied any desire to move up the career ladder, proclaiming his satisfaction with his job in the Senate. Compare this with, oh I don't know, Sen. John Kerry (and his ego) criticizing the President and his Iraq policy. Reed not only knows what he's talking about, but he even looks like he knows what he's talking about.

Bottom line: Reed is for real, he knows what he's talking about, and people within the Pentagon already have tremendous respect for him. If the Dems can get their act together and take back the White House, don't be surprised to see Reed's name in the running for Secretary of Defense (if he's not already on the ticket...)

Note: That picture is of former Sen. Pell (D-RI), Reed, and former President Clinton on Air Force One in 1994.