Not that I’m sure anybody is surprised by this at this point (perhaps except the far-left hoping Obama might change his mind), but it is looking increasingly likely that current Defense Secretary Robert Gates will hold his job for at least another year, according to CNN.

If I have some qualms about the composition of the top tier positions (the composition, not necessarily who’s been or might be selected), this is one that makes me happy to have heard about weeks ago, even if it was kind of a no-brainer.  And now to hear that it’s a “done deal” is excellent.

Some on the are undoubtedly getting a sense of buyer’s remorse right now, but I’ve no doubt Obama will throw them a bone from time to time.  Which bones he’ll dish out are to be determined, I suppose.

Meanwhile, some on the right are being snarky about this decision.  No doubt, though, Malkin would be quite outraged if he’d appointed a liberal to the position.