US President confirms Emanuel’s exit

US President Barack Obama has announced the resignation of his chief of staff Rahm Emanuel, who is poised for a bid to be mayor of Chicago.



While making the announcement Obama said it was a bittersweet moment for the White House.



Pete Rouse, who served as Obama's chief of staff in the US Senate, will be Emanuel's interim replacement.



The position of chief of staff is considered one of the most influential in the White House.



Before Obama's announcement, presidential aides said Emanuel's departure would be a loss to the administration.