Blinken is, in many ways, a throwback to diplomats of yore. He moves comfortably in D.C. society among a foreign policy set that exists as citizens of the globe. He has a traditional view of international alliances — they are crucial to global security — and believes strongly that America should be leading them. Blinken spent six years on Capitol Hill helping lead the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee, so he understands the importance with which the legislative branch views its oversight over American foreign policy. And he has deep relationships with the senators who are involved in overseeing America’s role in the world. Blinken has served in the Clinton and Obama administrations, so he knows his way around the executive branch as well. As a matter of fact, Blinken led a consultancy called WestExec Advisors, which is a nod to the driveway alongside the White House. Fun facts: Blinken speaks French like a native — he spent his formative years there — and he plays a mean guitar.