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Emanuel For President? He Says No

CHICAGO (AP) –- Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel is content running his city. As for running the United States, no thanks.

At least that's the message the former White House chief of staff sent Thursday when asked if he'd ever consider running for president.

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Emanuel's decision to give a speech on Nov. 19 at the biggest Democratic fundraiser before the Iowa Caucuses is fueling speculation he may be laying the groundwork for a 2016 bid.

Emanuel tried to put that speculation to rest Thursday with a little prompting, saying "no, never. Not interested."

Emanuel noted he's already made appearances on behalf of President Barack Obama's re-election campaign. He says he will do more, but he loves his current job.

The president's re-election campaign chose the former White House chief of staff for the Jefferson Jackson Dinner in Des Moines in response to a demand from Iowa Democrats for a big name who could boost ticket sales.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)

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