Obama taps McDonough as deputy NSA

WASHINGTON, Oct. 22 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama Friday said he intends to appoint Denis McDonough as deputy national security adviser.

McDonough will replace Tom Donilon, who is moving up from the deputy position to replace Gen. James Jones as national security adviser.

"For years, I have counted on Denis McDonough's expertise and counsel on national security issues," Obama said in a statement. "He possesses a remarkable intellect, irrepressible work ethic, and a sense of collegiality that has earned him the respect of his colleagues. I know that Denis will be indispensable to our entire national security team as we continue to protect the American people, and advance American interests and values around the world."

"Under the leadership of General Jones, Denis has been an essential member of our national security team, leading our staff and tackling the full range of tough national security challenges that we have faced," Donilon said. "I could not ask for a better colleague, and I look forward to continuing to work with Denis and our talented and hard-working national security staff as we carry forward our effort to advance a safer, stronger, and more prosperous America."

McDonough has served as chief of staff of the national security staff since September 2009. He was a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress and also served as a foreign policy adviser to Tom Daschle when the South Dakotan was Senate Democratic leader.