Democrats avoid leadership contests

WASHINGTON, Nov. 10 (UPI) -- Democrats have avoided what might have been a divisive contest for majority whip when they take over the U.S. House of Representatives in January.

Instead of seeking the majority whip post, U.S. Rep. Rahm Emanuel, D-Ill., said he will run for chairman of the House Democratic caucus, The Hill, a Washington newspaper, reported.

U.S. Rep. John Larson, D-Conn., the current caucus vice chair, has decided to remain in his position, allowing Emanuel, credited with directing the Democrats' House takeover, to run unopposed.

"I seek this post, and not any other, because I believe that what we need now is a unified Democratic caucus, focused squarely on the business of moving this country forward," Emanuel said.

Emanuel's decision avoids a contest for majority whip against U.S. Rep. James Clyburn, D-S.C.