[snugs]

Does that apply to all cabinet positions because they are all appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate or is it just Secretary of State and Defense and does this apply whoever is in power?

[Unrepentant VN Vet]

IMHO, it is generally applicable to Bush and Republican administrations only.

Clinton's cabinet, as I recall, spent more time in the 24/7/365 Political Campaign mode (Which, BTW, was probably Slick's only significant "contribution" to government)than they did in their supposed real jobs.

Don't have time right now to go through any but fiascoes like Ruby Ridge and the Albright Aid Plan for North Korean Nuke development to characterize their performance at that, but few of them were successful campaigners, either.

[Roccus]

As I see it, all Cabinet posts are served at the "pleasure of the President." If the President wants any or all of them to stay out of politics, he will make that known to them. If they do not abide by his wishes, he may dismiss them. So what it comes down to is that the Cabinet members do what the 'boss' wants, or they find another job.

[Phsstpok]

Does that apply to all cabinet positions because they are all appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate or is it just Secretary of State and Defense and does this apply whoever is in power?

As a matter of tradition the members of the cabinet do not engage in overtly political activities, particularly State and Defense.  It's not a legal matter but one of style and good taste.  This president has tried to restore some of the decorum that the bent one stripped from the office of the President.  Of course, it's also traditional that the Presidential spokesman avoids overtly political activities, but Tony Snow has been a big draw this campaign season.  Of course when Tony does it even participating in politics is a class act.  Few others could pull that off, even Condi or Rummy (though I'd pay to see Rummy).