President-elect Barack Obama's appointment of Hillary Rodham Clinton to be secretary of state is a good decision.

As he said of Sen. Clinton at a press conference Monday in Chicago: "She possesses an extraordinary intelligence and toughness, and a remarkable work ethic. ... She is an American of tremendous stature who will have my complete confidence, who knows many of the world's leaders, who will command respect in every capital, and who will clearly have the ability to advance our interests around the world."

Congratulations to the New York senator on the appointment. She will do a good job and should be readily approved by the U.S. Senate.

Now it falls to New York Gov. David A. Paterson to appoint her successor. He has had some time to consider candidates.

Ever since Sen. Clinton was mentioned as a possible choice for America's top diplomat, several names have been advanced to succeed her. As expected, the governor has received much advice on that score.

Much of the counsel seems based on identity politics rather than qualifications for the office.

The job of representing New York in the U.S. Senate should be based totally on qualifications. Who is the best person for the job?

The person should be an experienced leader who knows New York well and understands Washington. The state's next senator should have a broad base of support in the state and be well known and respected.

New York already has two state officials holding office who were not elected to their specific post. David Paterson himself stepped in to the governorship to replace the fallen Eliot L. Spitzer earlier this year. New York Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli was appointed, not elected, after Alan G. Hevesi resigned in 2006. Both Gov. Paterson and Comptroller DiNapoli have served ably and well.

Mrs. Clinton said that she will remain in her Senate office until confirmed. That gives Gov. Paterson ample time to consider her replacement, which should answer the question: Who is likely to do the best job for New York and the country?

The governor's decision is an important one for New York and the nation.