President-elect Barack Obama plans to nominate two Indian Country allies to his Cabinet as more of his top picks emerged on Wednesday.

Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano (D) is being tapped to serve as Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. She has enjoyed a strong relationship with tribes in her state, two of whom share a border with Mexico.

Former Senate majority leader Tom Daschle has emerged as Obama's pick for Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Service, which includes the Indian Health Service. Daschle has long been known as an advocate for tribes and individual Indians.

Other Obama contenders include Penny Pritzker, a Chicago businesswoman for Secretary of the Department of Commerce. Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-New York) is said to be under consideration for Secretary of the Department of State.

Get the Story:
Ariz. Governor Said to Be Pick For Homeland Security Post (The Washington Post 11/20)
Obama to Nominate Daschle as HHS Secretary (The Washington Post 11/20)
Obama’s Pick of Daschle May Test Conflict-of-Interest Pledge (The New York Times 11/20)
Discussions With Clintons as Obama Creates Team (The New York Times 11/20)

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