TRANSITION TIP TOE

On March 15, 2016, a web site called The Political Insider carried a bold headline and story announcing that Doctor Ben Carson would accept appointment as Surgeon General in an administration headed by Donald Trump.

That story came on the heels of Internet buzz about the fact that Carson, an erstwhile opponent of Trump in the Republican Primaries, was less than enthusiastic about supporting the front runner.

The good Doctor told News Max in March that his decision to back Trump was a practical one, arrived at only after considering all other alternatives. Here is the quote:

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“I didn’t see a path for [John] Kasich, who I like, or for [Marco] Rubio, who I like. As far as [Ted] Cruz is concerned, I don’t think he’s gonna be able to draw independents and Democrats unless he has some kind of miraculous change… Is there another scenario that I would have preferred? Yes. But that scenario isn’t available.”

Pressed to clarify, Carson said he meant he’d prefer to have backed one of the other candidates, but he was convinced that Trump was on track to secure the nomination.

Carson acknowledged that he would welcome the opportunity to serve in a Trump administration. Because Carson is a renowned neurosurgeon, the role of Surgeon General was immediately suggested, and Carson did not deny being interested in that appointment.

The liberal press, of course, being thirsty for any kind of negative news about the Donald, promptly reminded readers that it is a federal offense to promise appointment to government employment in exchange for electoral support or endorsement.

All of which is by way of background to explain the stories being told these days as the President-Elect goes about naming members of his cabinet.

Ben Carson has made it clear that he wants to serve the 45^th President in whatever role he may be called upon to play. Still, he has been cautious in identifying any particular assignment.

He says that he would welcome being an advisor and certainly his counsel would be an asset to the Trump administration. 

No doubt there are voices in the transition camp counseling against any Carson appointment which could be characterized as a quid pro quo for the Doctor’s campaign endorsement and help.

But, c’mon. Does anyone really think that Donald Trump, the consummate deal maker, had to promise Ben Carson an appointment to get his endorsement? 

It’s a little late for the President Elect to fret over what the New York Times might say. Doctor Ben Carson will be a stellar choice for Surgeon General.