For months we knew it was coming, and today it happened. Tony Blair resigned after more than 10 years as British Prime Minister.
I have to say, I will miss him. Over the last decade Blair was a major political figure around the world and even here in the U.S., where we have our own share of larger-than-life politicians (good and bad). He was a central player in so many of the biggest global and Western developments of the last 10 years, it will be strange not seeing him as often in the media spotlight, flashing that reassuring smile and somehow always knowing exactly the right thing to say (they guy had some excellent PR people...)
From the moment he took office and instilled his "Third-Way" of political thinking (not unlike Bill Clinton's less partisan, more moderate form of leadership), Blair put a modern face on Britain and helped re-invent its image from that of a stodgy, conservative country where everyone wears tweed and boils their meat, into that of a vibrant world power that is at the center of global commerce, innovation, fashion, food and more (thankfully the pubs didn't change...).
His was not a perfect tenure - payoffs for titles, the war in Iraq, etc. - but, in comparison, it stands well above those of most of his contemporaries with some shining examples of success - strong economy, improved education, a renewed sense of global standing, peace in Ireland. I would like to think that he is leaving his post with his country and the world in somewhat better condition than when he stepped in, all things considered.
Blair stood by the U.S. during some very difficult times, often at the expense of his reputation and popularity at home. After 9/11 he let us know that we weren't alone in the world. And when our heads of state were caught up in their own scandals and mistakes, we could always look to Tony Blair to remember that leaders of the free world could maintain some semblance of tact, class, compassion and clear thinking.
And I have very real hopes he can bring that compassion and clear thinking to bear in his next job - Peace Envoy to the Middle East, representing the United States, Russia, the European Union and the United Nations.
But change is always good - even if the party in control remains the same (Labour). Looking forward to getting to know the new Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, and seeing what's next in Anglo American relations. The first place most people will look is Iraq, and what Britain might do next. Should be interesting...
