13 October 2011

Transportation Sec'y LaHood to Serve Just One Term

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, a former Illinois Republican congressman, will leave the Obama administration at the end of the president's current term.

LaHood was asked about his intentions at a media luncheon Thursday, said spokeswoman Jill Zuckman. She said he gave no reason for his decision and hadn't discussed his intentions with President Barack Obama.

LaHood was congressman for 14 years until retiring in 2008, and a top aide to former House Minority Leader Bob Michel before that.

He had a reputation in Congress as a moderate who tried to foster greater cooperation between Democrats and Republicans. While those skills made LaHood an attractive Cabinet choice, he has become better known as a plain-speaking advocate for safer driving and job-creating transportation projects.

Earlier this week, White House Chief of Staff Bill Daley -- the son and brother of former Chicago mayors -- announced that he'd also leave his post when the president's term ends.

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