Obama expected to tap LaHood for DOT post

Rep. Ray LaHood has been at the forefront of efforts to make the floor of the House less partisan. Respected for his ability to preside, he was in the chair during most of President Bill Clinton’s impeachment a decade ago.

The Associated Press

12/18/2008

CHICAGO — President-elect Barack Obama intends to nominate Republican Rep. Ray LaHood of Illinois as transportation secretary, Democratic officials said. The officials who described the selection did so on condition of anonymity, saying they were not authorized to discuss personnel matters not yet made public.

Transition officials say they expect the nomination to be announced later this week before Obama leaves on a holiday vacation to his native Hawaii.

LaHood, 63, is stepping down from his congressional seat after 14 years representing the area around Peoria.

He has been at the forefront of efforts to make the floor of the House less partisan. Respected for his ability to preside, he was in the chair during most of President Bill Clinton’s impeachment a decade ago.

Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa said the union supports the possible nominee.

“Congressman Ray LaHood has been a long-time, strong ally in the Teamsters’ unwavering fight to stop unsafe Mexican trucks from traveling freely throughout the United States,” Hoffa said, characterizing LaHood as a moderate Republican. “We are anxious to meet with him and assist in any way we can to advance President-elect Obama’s agenda to rebuild America, improve the safety and efficiency of our transportation system and create millions of good jobs.”

Defense Secretary Robert Gates, whom Obama asked to remain in office, is the other Republican tapped so far for the incoming Cabinet.

Obama has yet to announce choices for the Labor Department, senior intelligence positions or the Office of U.S. Trade Representative.

Nominees will require Senate confirmation before they can take their positions in the new administration.

Kevin Jones of The Trucker staff can be reached for comment at kevinj@thetrucker.com.