WASHINGTON - PRESIDENT-ELECT Barack Obama's transition chief says the incoming administration is reviewing President George W. Bush's executive orders on stem cell research, oil and gas drilling, and other matters.

Mr John Podesta says the idea is that a president can use such orders to move quickly without waiting for Congress to act.

Mr Podesta also says Mr Obama is working on building a Cabinet that is diverse. That includes reaching out to Republicans and independents - part of the broad coalition that supported Obama during the race against Republican John McCain.

As for new legislation to aid the economy, Mr Podesta says it is up to Mr Bush to help move any such proposal in a postelection session of Congress. -- AP