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Kansas City, MO – Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius is a step closer to becoming the nation's chief health official. KCUR's Elana Gordon reports.
The Senate Finance Committee approved the nomination of Governor Sebelius as the next Secretary of Health and Human Services earlier this morning. That was despite dissent from several Republicans on the panel, who voiced concerns about Sebelius' ties to late term abortion doctor George Tiller. Senator Jon Kyl of Arizona also questioned Sebelius' commitment to patient safeguards and the right to choose a doctor and health care plan. Sebelius did win the support of two Republicans on the panel, including Kansas Senator Pat Roberts. Her nomination now moves to the full senate for a final vote. That date hasn't been set yet, but if Sebelius is confirmed, Lieutenant Governor Mark Parkinson will take over as the Governor of Kansas.
Funding for health care coverage on KCUR has been provided by the Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City.
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