Kitzhaber Shows Interest in Joining Obama Team (VIDEO)

It's only in the talking stages, but Kitzhaber could serve in one of two positions with Barack Obama's cabinet.

Former Oregon Governor Dr. John Kitzhaber

(SALEM, Ore.) - Oregon's former Governor John Kitzhaber said today that is would like to be a part of the Obama Administration if he is asked. Kitzhaber could possibly serve as secretary for either of two departments: Health and Human Services or Interior, The Oregonian reported today. Either would be a top-level administration position.

Kitzhaber told The Associated Press today that he hasn't been contacted by Obama's transition team, but he says he would be open to either position if they were offered to him.

Kitzhaber's time in politics began with his service in the Oregon House of Representatives from 1979 to 1981. In 1980, he was elected to the Oregon State Senate, serving three terms from 1981 to 1993, and as President of the Senate from 1985 until 1993.

As Oregon Senate President he was instrumental in the creation of the state's government-funded healthcare plan, Oregon Health Plan. He served two terms as governor, spanning from 1995 to 2003.

Prior to his career in politics and healthcare reform, the former Oregon's Governor was an emergency room doctor.

In this video posted by the Archimedes Movement, John Kitzhaber, M.D. discusses the health issues facing President-elect Barack Obama. The video was recorded October 16th, 2008:

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