Cape Girardeau native and conservative icon Rush Limbaugh loves Barack Obama’s selection of Hillary Clinton, but not necessarily because he’s a fan of either Democrat’s policies.

For Obama to appoint his former rival to a key post in his administration, Limbaugh says, is a “brilliant” political stroke worthy of Michael Corleone.

“You know the old phrase, ‘You keep your friends close and your enemies closer?’ How can she run for president in 2012?” Limbaugh told ABC News’ Barbara Walters. “She’d have to run against the incumbent and be critical of him — the one who made her Secretary of State.”

Limbaugh made the comments to Walters on a segment for the “The 10 Most Fascinating People of 2008,” which will air on the network Thursday.