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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2010
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Obama Talks to Gates About Staying at Pentagon

Defense Secretary fulfill talk of bipartisan cabinet

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(Newser) – Barack Obama and Robert Gates are negotiating policy issues with a view toward Gates remaining Defense secretary, the Financial Times reports, a move that would make the Bush appointee a key member of a bipartisan cabinet that resembles Abraham Lincoln's “team of rivals.” Gates, a former CIA chief, is respected for being tough, but in a less abrasive manner than predecessor Donald Rumsfeld.

The Obama camp has long admired the Pentagon chief, calling him an “old-fashioned patriot” who would be “an even better” leader under Obama. Gates and the president-elect disagree on Iraq, but a new US-Iraqi pact defining America’s exit makes that issue nearly moot. Gates is said to have surveyed his senior advisers, and a high percentage would stay under Obama's rule.

Gates is the most likely Bush cabinet member to stay on under Obama.
Gates is the most likely Bush cabinet member to stay on under Obama.   (AP Photo/Ron Edmonds)
Robert Gates has been Defense Secretary since he was appointed by President Bush in 2006, and has been applauded by lawmakers of all stripes.
Robert Gates has been Defense Secretary since he was appointed by President Bush in 2006, and has been applauded by lawmakers of all stripes.   (AP Photo)
Condoleezza Rice and Robert Gates walk off the field after taking part in the coin toss of the Notre Dame and Navy football game Saturday.
Condoleezza Rice and Robert Gates walk off the field after taking part in the coin toss of the Notre Dame and Navy football game Saturday.   (AP Photo/Rob Carr)
Gates, pictured right, is respected by US allies for how he has handled the Pentagon since taking over in 2006.
Gates, pictured right, is respected by US allies for how he has handled the Pentagon since taking over in 2006.   (APP Photo/U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jerry Morrison)
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Lula
Nov 19, 08 1:15 PM CST
Obama should get rid of all of the Bush cronies. Reply
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justme
Nov 19, 08 4:59 PM CST
Perhaps Obama is more interested in hiring and keeping a capable and talented patriot than in bashing Bush or hiring another Clinton rerun.. Reply
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Lula
Nov 22, 08 2:14 PM CST
Another Clinton rerun would be just fine, but not another Bush rerun. Reply
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