WASHINGTON, Nov 16: President-elect Barack Obama on Sunday announced several key members of his White House staff ahead of his January 20, 2009 inauguration.

Obama in a statement announced that Pete Rouse will serve as senior adviser, while Mona Sutphen and Jim Messina will serve as deputy chief of staff.

“These individuals are important additions to a team with the experience and ability to help our nation overcome pressing challenges at home and around the world,” Obama said in a statement.

Rouse is a years-long US congressional staffer. Sutphen, a former foreign service officer, a member of Obama’s transition team. Messina, also a member of the transition team, has served as an aide to various US lawmakers.—AFP