Contingency Planning

Sure, the global markets are in freefall, Democrats are salivating over the potential for a landslide, and the Troopergate report is due today. But has anyone thought about Hillary Clinton lately?

In 25 days, if Barack Obama wins (as is now assumed), Hillary begins her new life. Yes, she “ended” her campaign on June 7. But the Clintons — telling Democrats that Obama couldn’t win — were making contingency plans throughout the general-election campaign. Hillary’s political action committee kept on going, and the engines kept running in case John McCain became president.

That is no longer looking likely. And instead of Hillary gearing up for 2012 if Obama loses, Sarah Palin may be gearing up for 2012 if McCain does. What a difference a few months make. In my column this week, I wondered what will be next for the ambitious, accomplished Clinton.

Let me know what you think.

WHAT IS HILLARY’S NEW ROLE, SHOULD OBAMA BECOME PRESIDENT? Ask A.B. returns Monday, Oct. 13. Please join my weekly video Q & A by sending your questions and comments to askab@digital-staging.thehill.com. Thank you.