Obama names key campaign staff

Barack Obama's campaign today announced the filling of 15 key posts for the fall election, including chiefs of staff for Michelle Obama and his running mate, whoever it is. .

Stephanie Cutter, who was Senator John F. Kerry's communications director for his 2004 presidential bid, will be Michelle Obama's top aide, as well as a senior adviser to the campaign.

And Patti Solis Doyle, former campaign manager for Hillary Clinton who has reportedly had a falling out with the inner circle since being forced out, will be the top aide to vice presidential nominee-to-be -- a selection that in some eyes makes it less likely that Obama will pick Clinton.

The appointments also include the national field director and regional directors, among them, for the Northeast, Eureka Gilkey, who is formerly the campaign's deputy political director.

“From the beginning, we’ve asked the American people to stand up and take ownership of this campaign—and it’s because of their overwhelmingly positive response that 16 months later we’re poised to make history together,” campaign manager David Plouffe said in a statement. “Today we’re adding to our leadership team so that we reach even more Americans who share the belief that people who love their country can change it. These staff members bring a wealth of organizing experience to their new role, and they’ll provide key insight and direction as we continue to build our coalition.”