I so often find that one door closes and another opens. And what's behind door 2 or 3 is better than the original. In this case, President Obama named Governor Bill Richardson, a leading Hispanic, as his commerce secretary. Events unfolded and Governor Richardson resigned the appointment. Next, President Obama named Judd Gregg, a Senator from New Hampshire and he decided not to proceed with the appointment. Now President Obama has named Gary Locke. Here's his background:

Locke, a democrat, is currently working for the Seattle-based law firm Davis Wright Tremaine on issues involving China, energy and governmental relations. He was the former governor of the state of Washington, serving two terms from 1997 to 2005. Locke was the first Chinese-American to serve as governor in the United States.

Imagine, a Commerce Secretary who has enormous experience dealing with China and who is a Chinese-American who speaks Taishanese Cantonese (Chinese) (OK, Mandarin would be better!).

Although Governor Richardson is a great public servant, I don't think that having a Hispanic Secretary of Commerce makes near the statement of having a Chinese Secretary of Commerce. Where does our future lie in terms of trade - Asia, especially China. What is our top concern - energy.

This is a brilliant pick...better late than never!

Gillian Parrillo
SacWomen.com