I don't see how Obama can be all that inclusive and still carry out the mandate the country has given him.

First, he is being encouraged to bring his Democratic opponents into the tent. "President-elect reaches out to former rivals."
That's only smart, for political reasons as well as moving their common agenda.

"History offers lessons as Obama considers including Clinton and Republicans." "Republicans". He's being urged to include Republicans. That also has merit on some levels.

However, Obama was elected with a mandate, over 50% of the popular vote and a majority in the House and Senate. The voters are sending him to Washington expecting him to push his agenda, not Hillary's, and most especially to undo the mistakes of the last 8 years, not continue them.

The Conservative agenda of the last eight years was repudiated. The country said it was tired of unending wars, enormous government spending and borrowing, and the effects that huge government and massive military spending has upon the economic welfare of the US. The message was "go away".

I don't see where there should be room for Republicans in his administration. I will admit that most Republicans working for Bush - Cheney are folks who are flexible in their values and standards, willing to do what they are told and therefore would fit in anywhere. There are many who were willing to ignore the Constitution and laws, engaging in illegal activities at the whim of the President or Vice-President. Even people in the Department of Justice. Even the Attorney General. Really, really flexible people.

I think Obama was elected to see those folks would join the increasing number of Americans who are unemployed.