From the News Journal:
Gov. Jack Markell plans an unprecedented policy shift with his final Cabinet choice, a secretary who Markell said will blend administration goals for both the economy and the environment.
Markell said his new Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control chief will spearhead a “green is gold” strategy that aims to make Delaware a national leader in emerging clean energy and sustainable industry markets.
In a recent interview, Markell said he wants the next DNREC secretary to become a linchpin of the state’s economic development strategy and efforts to counter declines in financial and manufacturing employment. The new governor already has taken a personal role in a nationwide search for his last remaining Cabinet vacancy.
Recruiting has focused on those best able to merge traditional agency duties with an administration drive to attract and support “green” businesses — those that will grow and potentially lead a nationwide shift toward renewable energy sources and industries that consume fewer natural resources.
I understand Governor Markell wants to take his time and find the perfect person for the job of Secretary of DNREC. But given the importance of the Green Jobs initiatives, we begin to reach a point of diminishing returns. Time is a-wasting. I have the same feelings about President Obama appointing someone to head the Department of Health and Human Services. Given the need for universal healthcare, that job, and the job of Healthcare Reform Czar in the West Wing, need to filled yesterday.
I understand the need for a thorough candidate search, but both Governor Markell and President Obama should have had at least three people in mind for every cabinet position back in November. That way, if something happened to one nominee, he is ready to go with another that has been vetted. Delays are costly.