A Q&A with Gov. Kathleen Sebelius

Monday, November 3, 2008

KATHLEEN SEBELIUS

Youth

My two sons are in their 20s and never before have they or their friends been this excited about a candidate as they are about Barack Obama. My sons have always been involved in the political process but there are many of their friends who for the first time are paying attention and better than that, getting involved. Barack Obama brings a real sense of change for not only the younger generation but for all of us.

There are so many ways young people can be involved: they can volunteer, they can donate, they can work for a campaign or a political party and they can vote. The important thing is no matter their level of participation — they are engaged.

Obama/Biden

Barack Obama and Joe Biden bring the change that America is counting on. They can help us chart a new direction as opposed to more of the same with McCain/Palin. John McCain voted with President Bush 90 percent of the time and he and his running mate offer another Bush term — something we don’t need.

I’m delighted Senator Obama has chosen Joe Biden as his running mate. His extensive experience dealing with foreign policy issues is an asset in these complicated times. He will be a great partner for Barack Obama in bringing about the change so desperately needed in our country, and restoring to America our sense of optimism and hope for a brighter future. I am proud to support this incredible team.

Hillary Clinton

I told Senator Clinton when we spoke, before I endorsed Senator Obama — I respect her immensely and if she were the nominee I would do everything in my power to help her. Like I told her back in January, Barack Obama is the right leader who brings the change we need at the right time.

What Hillary’s candidacy has done is pave the way for those who will follow. This is a historic time that we should all be proud of. We’ve seen our first serious African American, female and Hispanic candidates for president during this election.

Media and women

I find it most beneficial when the media focuses on the job a person does — not what color their suit is, or commenting on their hairstyle or nail polish choice. It seems there have been examples of this with female candidates — in my first run for governor for example. The way I dealt with it was to immediately have my staff push back and make sure it was handled differently and more appropriately the next time.

Cabinet position

I have been and will continue to be an enthusiastic advocate for Barack and I will do whatever I can to help him become the next President of the United States. Right now, I’m focused on the best job I’ve ever had ... Governor of this great state of Kansas — which would improve immensely with a true partner in the White House.

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