Carly vs. Bono

Politics does indeed make strange bedfellows, as exemplified by Sunday's remarks by U.S. Treasury Secretary John Snow that U2 singer and iPod pitchman Bono might be considered to head the World Bank.

That, of course, puts him in competition with former Hewlett-Packard CEO Carly Fiorina, whose name was floated for the job last week.

A tough choice, no doubt, for the financial body. Maybe we can help by seeing how the candidates stack up in various areas.

Works well with others
Fiorina: Brief co-headlining gig with Compaq chief Michael Capellas didn't work out too well.

Bono: Has performed duets with B.B. King, Luciano Pavarotti, Frank Sinatra and Beyonce.

Expertise in European history
Fiorina: Majored in medieval history in college.

Bono: Recorded breakthrough album in 17th century Irish castle.

Criminal background check
Fiorina: Investigated by federal regulators for tactics in mustering votes for HP's merger with Compaq.

Bono: Arrested by San Francisco police for vandalism after spray painting "Stop the Traffic. Rock and Roll." on city property during a free 1987 concert.

Financial performance
Fiorina: Fired for inconsistent revenue growth.

Bono: Led the music industry by grossing more than $110 million from last major tour.

Fighting stereotypes
Fiorina: Career has been an inspiration to female executives.

Bono: Career has been an inspiration to vertically challenged wannabe rock stars who happen to look a lot like Robin Williams.

Recent recognition
Fiorina: Awaiting delivery of $42 million severance package.

Bono: Awaiting U2's induction this year into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Conclusion: Bono has the backing of the London press and a much stronger money-management record. And think of the operational expenses he could save by combining World Bank meetings with concert tours. "We'd like to do a song by Lou Reed. But first, a little debate on Resolution 11-A02B..."