President-Elect Barack Obama is set to announce long-time campaign adviser Valerie Jarrett as a Senior Aide in the White House. Jarrett has been associated with the Obamas for almost 17 years, going back to before Michelle and Barack got married. Her experience in the city of Chicago (for better or for worse, depending on your point of view), is extensive.

All told, Jarrett served eight years with the city of Chicago, as deputy corporation counsel for finance and development and then as deputy chief of staff. She later became commissioner of the Department of Planning and Development. more ›