LaTransportation Secretary

Pres.-elect Barack Obama is expected to tap Rep. Ray LaHood, an IL Republican, as his Transportation Secretary.

Bloomberg's Tackett and Hughes write that LaHood is "known for his willingness to criticize his own party and to work with Democrats."

LaHood, 63, would be the second GOPer in Obama's Cabinet. Defense Secretary Robert Gates is the first.

More from Bloomberg: "In Congress, LaHood’s record is one of a centrist, willing to cast votes that crossed partisan lines. He voted in favor of raising vehicle fuel economy standards and co-sponsored legislation, with Emanuel, to extend health insurance to those without it. Yet he also has supported his party on core issues, such as putting up a fence along the U.S. border with Mexico and extending a program allowing wiretaps without warrants."

Obama's press event will be held tomorrow morning at -- where else? -- The Drake.