Bubba's Bogus Diplomacy

by Reihan Salam

After almost a decade spent skulking around with billionaires, celebrities, and other less-than-savory characters, Bill Clinton has returned to the world of high-stakes diplomacy. Once again, his animal magnetism has been placed in service to America's national interests. During a surprise visit to North Korea, the former president successfully negotiated the release of Laura Ling and Euna Lee, two American journalists who've been held captive since March. And though the White House insists that Clinton is acting on his own, it is blindingly obvious that the trip was cleared at the highest levels. As the husband of America's secretary of State, Clinton has credibility that, say, Laura Bush does not. But one has to wonder if Carter-like diplomatic troubleshooting is the best use of Bill Clinton's distinctive talents. (read the rest of the story)