To say that foggy bottom is dominated by those of far left wing political philosophies is an understatement. The interviewers are very good at weeding out any applicants who do not fit the profile of left-wing orthodoxy. Occasionally, during a GOP administration, they are directed to hire a few token conservatives in the George Will mold so as to improve their diversity.
I’m not surprised at your experience. I got the same impression back in 1981, and chose to go to law school.
As for Ambassador Stevens, he was a graduate of Cal-Berkley and Hastings College of Law. He had the pedigree they are looking for.