The Courting of General Jones

Wall Street Journal, Monday, April, 23rd, 2007

General James Jones, former commandant of the U.S. Corps, is being heavily recruited by both major political parties going into the presidential election of 2008. The transition of military leaders into political office is by no means unique in this country. George Washingto, Dwight Eisenhower and, most recently, John McCain are well-known examples. However, what is unique about General Jones is that he is being wooed by presidential candidates and party politicians from both sides of the aisle. "He is like Eisenhower, who belonged to no camp and everyone wanted him," says House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer.

Normally, military leaders' political leanings are clear long before they enter the political arena. What is different about Jones, however, is that he remains adamantly apolitical. That does not mean he is not without strong political opinion. When asked what he would do about Guantano military prison, he quickly replied, "I would shut it down tomorrow."

Overall, his stances sway between both aisles. He believes in a long-term military strategy in Iraq, yet he believes our reputation abroad has suffered terribly. Despite his political ambiguity, prominent political leaders are sure he is on their respective sides. Hillary Clinton has enjoyed her "many conversations about military and political issues" and calls him "the biggest 'get' out there." Senator Barack Obama reportedly "thinks the world of him." Yet Senator Pat Roberts, from Jones' native Kansas, assumes Jones is a Republican.

The key message when looking at how very influential people see Jones is that they all value his insightful leadership. General Jones possesses the rare qualities of a sought-after leader, regardless of which political ticket you stand for.

Matt Weith