John Kerry sets a pick on Dennis Rodman

[karynnj]

3. The question is whether Rodman was used by NK

As Kerry said (in the CNN article), if NK wants to show they are interested in joining the world, they should not test missiles. Note that he did not condemn Rodman for going to NK - which some in his position would have done.

I agree that we should use every tool we have - and Obama has approved both Bill Clinton and Richardson going there and meeting with him. In other places, Kerry has praised the serious efforts of non diplomats - George Clooney and Ben Afflect - both of whom testified at different times before the SFRC on their observations in Sudan and other places in Africa.

Did you see the Rodman interview? It was pretty much useless. His observations boiled down to - he is young, 28 years old (duh!), likes basketball (already known) and is a "good guy" and he wants Obama to call him. The latter will likely NOT happen until US diplomats have some faith that it could help, but Obama (and Kerry) have been much more willing to speak to people designated foes than any other modern leaders. It is not clear where there is an opening created by Rodman here.