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Susan Rice Follows Trend of Black National Security Advisors

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U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice has been selected for a new role as national security advisor, making her the third African American to hold the position.

Gen. Colin Powell held the position in the 80’s under the Reagan Administration and Condoleezza Rice held the position during the 1990s, working under George W. Bush.

President Obama announced the repositioning Wednesday morning. Rice will work directly with the president as his senior advisor. She is expected to begin working from the White House in July and will operate out of its “Situation Room” in times of crisis.

Rice didn’t need Senate or special interest approval to get the position. There are many reservations from Republicans and conservatives about her views and decisions. She’s been called a “black radical,” according to Colorlines, and Republicans disagree with her Benghazi plan and her investment in the Keystone oil pipeline, which was a conflict of interest for her role as Secretary of State.

The position, which has been occupied by Tom Donilon, may even be more influential than Secretary of State. Some have speculated that Rice now essentially being current Secretary of State John Kerry’s boss could cause the two to butt heads.

Samantha Power will take over for Rice as the U.N. ambassador. She’s worked on Obama’s National Security Council and her nomination will have to be confirmed before the Senate.

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