DNC to move some operations to Chicago

WASHINGTON, June 12 (UPI) -- The Democratic National Committee is moving some of its operations to Chicago to be more integrated with Barack Obama's presidential campaign, officials said.

The Politico reported Thursday that the DNC's political department, which is currently housed in Washington, will join state operations in Chicago, DNC spokeswoman Karen Finney said.

"As part of the efforts to fully integrate DNC operations with the Obama campaign here in Washington, in Chicago and in the states, political, field and constituency operations are moving to Chicago to work in the Obama headquarters," Finney said.

"The goal is to consolidate these efforts into one operation and effectively drive one national strategy," she said.

Politico said the DNC move reflects Obama's desire to maintain a streamlined campaign, as well as his swift and complete takeover of a Democratic Party that isn't always known for its unity.