Who would be best for Commerce Secretary? What should be the mission of the Department? Globalization... Glocalization... Localization of the economy? What are the jobs of the future, in the New Economy not yet developing well in America, thanks to poor industrial commerce vision and strategy in the past.

Based on the mission described below, our Department of Commerce has failed America miserably... at least the last 20 years. We need a very innovative approach to the department - not more Clinton-era thinking.

But who is right to transform this department?

The United States Department of Commerce is the Cabinet department of the United States government concerned with promoting economic growth. It was originally created as the United States Department of Commerce and Labor on February 14, 1903. It was subsequently renamed to the Department of Commerce on March 4, 1913, and its bureaus and agencies specializing in labor were transferred to the new Department of Labor.

The mission of the department is to "promote job creation and improved living standards for all Americans by creating an infrastructure that promotes economic growth, technological competitiveness, and sustainable development." Among its tasks are gathering economic and demographic data for business and government decision-making, issuing patents and trademarks, and helping to set industrial standards.

 

Disrupt IT

that is the question, Norm. To be honest, Barak (crap he doesnt even have a casual first name, bless his heart) has scared the crap out of me with his choice of those he is placing in positions of power... 

I mean Abe Lincoln IS very cool, and I just bought a coffee percolator today, and there is that new nostalgia for the old ways (code:security), but the world is sorta spinning into a self-destructive spiral at the moment.

It might be nice to have someone who appreciates sustainable development as the cultivation and growth of local agri/green/gray that vastly reduces energy consumption while boosting our local economy. I mean progress is nice, but we have to appreciate some old school stuff here too.

But, I'm curious why you find Richardson lacking? What is it about Richardson to alienate you? I do miss news releases and stories. I'm ready to just go live in the hills, because Richardson is one a the very few in Barak's administration I thought refreshing... here's from his presidential candidates bio: 

:::The positive choice is Bill Richardson, the candidate who has the greatest depth of experience, as a member of Congress, UN ambassador, Energy Secretary and governor of New Mexico. Richardson has for years been an inspiring leader in the fight against global warming. He recently signed into law a bill that requires New Mexico utilities to quadruple their use of renewable energy. Armed with the most aggressive plan to gain energy independence and reduce the emission of greenhouse gases, Richardson would provide the crucial environmental leadership sorely lacking in the United States. 

Bill Richardson is smart, likable and dedicated to the best of progressive principles. He would allow working families and small businesses to purchase healthcare coverage through the same plan enjoyed by members of Congress. He is the only candidate who has declared that acceptance of Roe v. Wade as established law will be a necessary condition for his Supreme Court nominees. While in Congress, he voted against, and continues to oppose, the military's disrespectful and discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy. He proudly stands for equal legal rights for all families, including same-sex couples. 

The kidnapping, disappearing and torture of people around the world, a trademark of the human-rights-abusing Bush Administration, will stand as one of our nation's most immense moral disgraces. As President, Bill Richardson will put an end to these abhorrent practices and help restore our moral standing among nations. 

Bill Richardson, a proven consensus-builder, has scored significant diplomatic successes. He has the broadest experience and a genuine commitment to fundamental Democratic values. He is, indeed, on our side of the line, and he will be a President who will make us proud.:::

http://www.thenation.com/doc/20071126/anderson

( I'll start posting on my non-home computer tomorrow - with real linking capability!) 

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