NEW: I’m told by multiple sources Biden’s biggest decision right now is Secretary of State – and Obama is pushing Susan Rice for the job.
Sources say Rice would bring diversity, deep institutional knowledge and experience – and was already vetted while under consideration for Biden’s VP pick. She also has necessary clearances and would blunt GSA ascertainment delays.
Her handling of Michael Flynn would also signal to the world that things are “going back to normal” under Biden’s administration – but some democrats are concerned she would have a confirmation problem because of Benghazi. People closer to Biden dismissed the thought.
Further—I’m told Sen. Chris Coons is very much reaching for the role, and his appointment would not deplete democratic ranks because the governor could tap Lisa Blunt-Rochester to replace him. Other considerations include Tony Blinken, William Burns, Sen. Chris Murphy.