The Politico is reporting that in addition to Ed Rendell’s lead role as puppet master in Glenn Beck’s universe, he’s going to be working for that liberal-leaning cable news station and its parent station, NBC. And while he’s at it, he’s got some things to say about stuff, because c’mon: that’s inevitable.

On doing stuff: “Would I be happy just practicing law? No. Would I be happy just doing TV and speeches? No. I want to do all of these things and be as active as I can . . . but my main goal is to have some degree of influence on the public discussion.”

On not being a lobbyist, and sort of being a lobbyist: “I’m not going to be a lobbyist, though I will work with companies about the best avenues to pursue in Washington and in the state capitol and in city halls.”

On his pal, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and his own (?) running for office again: “In 2016, she’ll be young in terms of energy, I think she’s performed brilliantly as Secretary of State.  I don’t think there’s the slightest doubt that she’d be a terrific president.  I think the time’s right for a woman president…If I make a lot of money, and Hillary tries to run in 2016, I may become a participate in the process.”

Here’s a video of him saying “The birthers are nuts,” which is funny because it’s true:

On former foe Bob Casey’s chances of re-election in 2012: “I think if anybody in politics can be considered unassailable, it’s Bob Casey.  I think he’s the one politician in Pennsylvania who appeals to all parts of the political spectrum.  He is conservative on many issues, progressive on many issues.  Geographically the one area he was weak was in Philadelphia, but he’s done great work there and been a strong advocate…Tom Corbett couldn’t run against Bob Casey and give him a battle…Had he chosen to run for governor this year, he would’ve blown away the field.”

And then there’s this: “The Republicans shouldn’t spend a nickel in PA.  If it’s a nickel, it’s a nickel wasted.”