The Coming Ross-Holbrooke Turf War

Ben Smith's report in Politico today about Dennis Ross' new job at the NSC makes fascinating reading.  Besides the spot-on reference to "Jones' powerful deputy, Tom Donilon," the implications seem pretty clear:  Ross will effectively supervise the work of four different areas of NSC policymaking ranging from Israel east to Pakistan. As Smith writes, "Ross’s abilities in the games of politics and diplomacy, and his clarity as a briefer, are legendary, and both friends and detractors suggested his place in the White House would likely transform him into a central figure in the administration." So start making popcorn.  Watching Ross at NSC vs. Holbrooke at State will be very interesting.