ray mavis is also a top name.is name has started to slowly creep into the debate over the last few months. he is very well respected in the democratic establishment. it would be seen as a gift to the base. >> i hear reid has turned them down. >> i'm convinced that the president has no idea who he would select and replace. this is a game we enjoy playing. it is an interesting one. i think michelle is an interesting possibility. >> she certainly has supporters. ash carter's name has been mentioned. >> in the end, it will be mavis. >> not john hamry? >> what this administration needs is a person to insulate it from partisan attacks on security. that is why they like gates. most of the names are tecnicrats. mavis has the political skills. he has done a great job as navy secretary. >> everybody in washington d.c. knows him. >> very likable guy. >> who could object to that? the other name is panella. he is politically well connected. he knows how to smooth the hill. that will be important coming into the election. >> ji