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We Have a Winner! Now What?

Kathryn Satterfield

After his long, tiring campaign, no one would blame Barack Obama for wanting to take a few days to rest. But the President-elect has a full schedule. Obama's campaign message centered around the need for change in the nation's policies and politics. Now he must prepare to make good on his promises.

Obama has a long to-do list to cover between now and January 20, when he is sworn in as President. President George W. Bush said he and his staff would work with Obama to ensure a smooth transfer of power. "He can count on complete cooperation from my administration," said Bush.

The New Team Players

Two of the biggest challenges the President-elect must address are national security and the economy. He will pick advisers over the next few weeks to help shape his plans.

Soon after he won, Obama announced the members of a team that will help him make the transition to the White House. He also asked Illinois congressman Rahm Emanuel to be his chief of staff. On Thursday, Emanuel agreed to give up his House seat. This will be his second White House post. He was on President Bill Clinton's staff.

As of last Thursday, Obama had not chosen anyone to lead his economic team. That will be an especially important job. The next Treasury Secretary must help Obama deal with rising unemployment and struggling financial markets.

A Safe, Smooth Handoff

The U.S. has not changed Presidents during wartime since 1968. Military officials have prepared a top-secret report on the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan for Obama. They will make sure he is ready to make important decisions. Last Thursday, Obama was to receive his first national intelligence briefing.

Besides staff, security and the economy, there is another transition detail to attend to. Obama promised his daughters, Malia and Sasha, that they could adopt a new dog to bring to the White House!

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