WASHINGTON — Signaling his commitment to take on the thorny challenge of refashioning American healthcare, President-elect Barack Obama has asked former Sen. Tom Daschle to be secretary of Health and Human Services, placing a political ally with vast Capitol Hill experience at the forefront of the debate.
Expanding access to health insurance, and mandating that all children be covered, were among Obama's signature campaign promises. Like Obama, Daschle has long said the federal government should play a more aggressive role in extending health insurance to more Americans and improving the quality of care.
Obama's selection of a high-profile figure with tested legislative skills -- Daschle served 10 years as Democratic leader in the Senate -- was viewed as a sign that the new president expects to move aggressively rather than incrementally on a healthcare agenda that could require delicate political maneuvering.
"You wouldn't appoint Tom Daschle to be secretary of Health and Human Services if you weren't serious about making healthcare reform a priority," said Drew E. Altman, president of the nonpartisan Kaiser Family Foundation.
Daschle's appointment drew praise from several key interest groups expected to be involved in the healthcare debate, among them insurers, doctors and lawmakers.
His legislative experience is expected to be especially valuable. Healthcare is an explosive issue that prompted a deadlock in Congress the last time major adjustments to the system were proposed, during President Clinton's first term.
"He certainly knows the corridors" of Congress, Sen. Christopher J. Dodd (D-Conn.) said.
Daschle represented South Dakota in the House and Senate for 26 years, including his tenure as Senate Democratic leader. He is close to Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.), who is helping lead Senate efforts to craft healthcare legislation. Daschle has also served on the governing board of the Mayo Clinic, one of the nation's premier medical centers.
The South Dakota native is also an emblem of how Obama is surrounding himself with old hands from the Democratic establishment even as he promises to introduce a new political style of operation in Washington -- something that has drawn increasing criticism from Republicans.
"Barack Obama is filling his administration with longtime Washington insiders," said Alex Conant, spokesman for the Republican National Committee. "For voters hoping to see new faces and fewer lobbyist connections in government, Daschle's nomination will be another disappointment."
