WASHINGTON (AP)

President-elect Barack Obama has named llinois Congressman Rahm Emanuel, a key member of the Democratic leadership in the House of Representatives, to serve him as chief of staff.

Choosing Emanuel was one of Obama's first decisions after becoming president-elect in Tuesday's election.

Deep insights

In a statement yesterday afternoon, Obama said his new chief's experience in the White House, the private sector and Congress "have given Rahm deep insights into the challenging economic issues that will be front and centre for our administration".

He thanked his Chicago friend for "once again answering his country's call".

The hard-charging Emanuel accepted the job after struggling over family and political considerations. By moving into a top White House job for a second time, Emanuel will have to put aside hopes of becoming speaker of the lower chamber.

Hoping to blunt partisan blowback from Republicans in Congress, Emanuel's statement declared:

"I want to say a special word about my Republican colleagues, who serve with dignity, decency and a deep sense of patriotism. We often disagree, but I respect their motives. Now is a time for unity and, Mr President-elect, I will do everything in my power to help you stitch together the frayed fabric of our politics, and help summon Americans of both parties to unite in common purpose."