The president-elect names the former Clinton White House aide to head the CIA and the retired admiral as national intelligence director Friday.
Both nominees have been labeled unusual choices, particularly with Panetta having no direct intelligence experience.
Read Obama's full remarks here.
Also vows no torture in war against terrorism, says he's directed his team to abide by Geneva Conventions.
Plus: AP on Blair's potentially rocky confirmation hearings, and NY Times on why a difficult road awaits Panetta if confirmed.
