Link.

NY Times

December 23, 2008

Clinton Moves to Widen Role of State Dept.

By MARK LANDLER and HELENE COOPER

WASHINGTON — Even before taking office, Hillary Rodham Clinton is seeking to build a more powerful State Department, with a bigger budget, high-profile special envoys to trouble spots and an expanded role in dealing with global economic issues at a time of crisis.

Never let it be said that neocons don't have a plan for further empire building in their back pocket at all times.

And never doubt that a Republic administration isn't standing in line to pick that pocket and put the plan into action.

And then there's a weak kneed congress that will turn their eyes the other way while the "wallet" is being lifted lest they unintentionally divert the pickpocket from his goal.

Late last year congress coughed up funding for escalation of covert operations in Iran at Bushy's request.

Bertie Ahern, Ireland's Taioseach (Prime Minister), is on record that Hillary gave very important assistance to the Irish peace process. It's also wonderful to see this video of Hillary with Ian Paisley and Martin McGuinness, two leaders who deserve our greatest respect for the way they are working together to secure long-term peace in Northern Ireland.