Clinton's dealings may hurt Hillary's chances as Sec of State

WASHINGTON: As US President-elect Barack Obama mulled naming his former Democratic rival Hillary Rodham Clinton as Secretary of State, her husband Bill Clinton's "complicated" global business interests could jeopardise her prospects, according to observers.

Former President Bill Clinton's international business dealings, global foundation and penchant for going off script could present a significant obstacle to Hillary becoming the top US diplomat, the observers were quoted as saying by the media here.

On the one hand, the ex-President's established relationships with world leaders could instantly make the 61-year-old New York Senator a welcome face in embassies around the world. On the other, Clinton's complicated global business interests could present future conflicts of interest that may result in unneeded headache for Obama.

Two officials with Obama's transition team said they were investigating Bill Clinton's finances and post-presidential dealings. As part of the early vetting process, the team is looking for any negative information that could throw the prospect of Hillary as Secretary of State into jeopardy.