Sebelius Expected To Be Named To Cabinet Post

The Kansas Democratic Party is confirming President Obama has settled on Gov. Kathleen Sebelius to head up the Department of Health and Human Services. She must still be confirmed by the Senate.

Sebelius was an early supporter of Obama’s run for the White House. She announced last year that Kansas’ budget problems would keep her in Topeka and she had no interest in joining the Obama Administration.

Obama’s first choice for HHS, former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle, withdrew his name from consideration after the revelation he owed $140,000 in taxes and penalties.

“Along with all Kansas Democrats, I am thrilled our good friend Gov. Kathleen Sebelius is nominated for this high Cabinet post,” said Kansas Democratic Party Chair Larry Gates.

In a joint statement, U.S. Senators Sam Brownback and Pat Roberts congratulated Sebelius on her nomination.

“It’s an honor for the State of Kansas to have an elected official appointed to the president’s cabinet”, said Brownback and Roberts. “We are hopeful Gov. Sebelius will be a voice for Kansas and rural America at the Department.”

When Sebelius leaves, Lt. Gov. Mark Parkinson will take over her post. He’s already said he has no intention of running for Governor in 2010. Sebelius had been mentioned as a possible candidate for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Sam Brownback.

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