The transition team releases a statement from the candidate and his new chief of staff Thursday afternoon.

OBAMA: “No one I know is better at getting things done than Rahm Emanuel.” Statement here.

EMANUEL: “I’m leaving a job I love to join your White House for one simple reason… I want to do everything I can to help deliver the change America needs.” Statement here.

Read James Carney’s TIME.com piece on Rahm Emanuel here.

Plus: The Wash Post on how Emanuel’s appointment could signal a rapid succession of Cabinet picks.