South Dakota's Republican governor and junior senator say they think having former Senator Tom Daschle working in President-elect Barack Obama's administration could only help the state.

Governor Mike Rounds says he expects Daschle to be part of an Obama administration based on Daschle's work with the incoming president.

Senator John Thune, who defeated Daschle for the Senate four years ago, says Daschle should be able to ensure the South Dakota perspective is heard within the new administration.

Daschle has been a key adviser to the Obama campaign. He is expected to be a part of Obama's administration if he wants to, but Daschle said earlier this week it's too early to tell.