Last night I met Secretary Leon Panetta

[CoopersDad]

Our local County Democratic Central Committee has an annual gala, Leon Panetta gave our keynote address.
He grew up in the Carmel Valley, the son of immigrants.
I'm friends with his son, Congressman Jimmy Panetta.

He explained that when he asked his parents why they went through such hardship coming her by sea his father replied, "so that we could give our children a better life."

I had a chance to chat with him and his wife after the dinner. He looks remarkably well, and I am energized by his comments.
He brought his dog, Buddy!

Photo below, his official portrait with a different earlier dog, Bravo.

[Ilsa]

1. LP was interviewed on a podcast (The Oath) by Chuck Rosenberg

in June 2020. It was a wonderful interview, and I developed great appreciation for Sec. Panetta. I've often thought he would make a great president! (Too old now, though.) I envy you getting to meet him and his wife. He's lived a remarkable life.

[LSparkle]

2. Panera has amazing CV

Hasn’t he held more top-level Cabinet positions than any other Dem? Defense comes to mind and also CIA director — I think I’m missing some others. A good man and the embodiment of gravitas. Glad we have his expertise and judgment during these complicated times.

[Wounded Bear]

3. Sec Panetta served our country well in many jobs over the years...nt

[BaronChocula]

4. Brilliant man

who learned early on to jump ship on the gop back in the nixon era. Thank goodness.

He reminds me of the late Bill Richardson who was also a bright guy with tons of gov experience.