A Daschle of Concern

Tom Daschle...Nancy Killefer...Timothy Geithner...Bill Richardson...What do thy have in common?

All were nominees for cabinet positions in the Obama administration and each had a serious flaw missed by the administration's vetting process. Is it a fluke? Or is it a symptom of something more serious ?

In the meantime, Iran announced that it has launched a satellite. This event is Sputnik Part II, a grave warning that big problems lie ahead.

In 1957 the Soviet Union launched Sputnik, the world's first satellite. It was a wake-up call for the U.S. A fierce rival had taken the lead in space exploration. Americans quickly developed a deeper appreciation for teaching math and science. We began a daunting space effort that was first to put people on the Moon. With our can-do, forward looking attitude, we prevailed.

What about now? Iran's announcement is a new call to action, heightening concerns about possible nuclear weapons in the hands of Iran's leaders. These are the same people who equip others to kill and maim our soldiers in Iraq. But our economy is struggling and our new president is having to deal with some early political stumbles.

Can we respond effectively? Of course! But to be sure, the world is watching. We have enemies. And right now I'll bet they're wondering how long it will take for us to focus and how vulnerable we may be in the meantime.

Take just a few minutes to look at this CNN report on Sputnik. The broadcast aired in 2007 marking the 50th anniversary of Sputnik's launch. Note the reactions of people at the time (1957). How different--or similar--is our situation today?

Quick Vue: The launch of Sputnik and its profound impact on the world.

Sources for this post include The Wall Street Journal, New York Times and CNN.