No, gender is not the key, or otherwise we would have peace by now.
Nor is skill the key, because we have had very skilled people serving our country in all positions.
Evil exists, and governments and individuals always have to fight against it. Dr. Rice is not the Savior, but she also is not our enemy.
Nicely said, gentle. Your name fits.
Did I say she is the enemy? No. So, please don't put words in my mouth.
Neither does Israel need us to be a Savior. They are doing a superb job of defending themselves.
Any keen observer can see the mission to the ME is a difficult and volatile one. Israel is fighting a particular face of a greater evil. That evil is backed by allies, in the form of nations and terrorist groups.
Israel needs to know, both overtly and covertly, from us that we are still her ally. Demeanor carries as much or more meaning than words, and I think the right sort of man could convey the demeanor better.
Condi is fabulous in many ways, quick thinking, articulate and courageous. I just think she's over her head as SECSTATE and was better suited to her lower-profile NSA position.
Still, I was NOT sad to see Powell go, which should have happened sooner.