Thursday, November 6, 2008 4:00 PM

Pros And Cons Of Emanuel Pick

By MARY GILBERT

Potential Pros:
 
White House experience: As an aide to Bill Clinton, Rahm Emanuel witnessed the relatively bumpy transition period in 1992, but also saw the operation recover under the leadership of Leon Panetta. He presumably understands some of the potential pitfalls and will know how to avoid them.

Congressional experience: Emanuel knows the ins and outs of the power structure on the Hill. "He understands how the legislative process works, which will bring great advantage as the new administration plans its legislative agenda and then takes necessary steps to secure its passage," said University of Vermont professor John Burke, author of "Presidential Transitions: From Politics to Practice." "Only he and former Senator Howard Baker," who was tapped as Ronald Reagan's chief of staff in 1987, "have had that kind of direct legislative experience."

Closeness to the president-elect: Emanuel's relationship with Obama goes back to their Chicago days. The two are close personally; Emanuel knows Obama's strengths and weaknesses as a leader, and thus can presumably work around them.

Early announcement bodes well for transition: The chief of staff has a multitude of responsibilities, including making other key White House staff appointments. "Early appointment of a chief of staff is a central pillar of a successful transition," said  Burke, calling the quick announcement "a very good sign."

Potential Cons:

Temperament: Nicknamed "Rahmbo," the Illinois representative has made enemies as well as friends on Capitol Hill. His take-no-prisoners style can ruffle feathers. Though it could make him an effective surrogate for the more mild-mannered Obama, it could also prove an obstacle to the kind of bipartisan governing Obama has promised throughout his campaign. The position of chief of staff requires a "strong, experienced, and astute hand, but not an overbearing one," according to Burke. It remains to be seen if Emanuel can strike the right balance as a manager.

Supporting actor: Obama will be the face of the administration, while it's the chief of staff's role to handle the backroom dealings. For a man who has played a very visible role in Congress, will a behind-the-scenes role be enough?

Honest broker: Whether the outspoken Emanuel can be relied upon to provide impartial counsel on policy issues is an open question. "Chiefs of staff who put their own policy thumbs too heavily on the scale run into problems," Burke said, citing Donald Regan under Reagan and John Sununu under George H.W. Bush as examples. "Can he present his own policy views and advice, without compromising alternative points of view?"

Removes a powerful player from the House: Emanuel had aspirations to become House Speaker. This job will, at least, put those plans on hold, and the Democratic leadership will have to find a suitable replacement for his position as Caucus Chairman.