Seattle Police Chief Gil Kerlikowske has accepted a job in the Obama administration, most likely overseeing the nation’s drug policies, according to sources familiar with the chief’s plans.
Kerlikowske, who has led the department for more than eight years, has told the department’s top commanders he expects to leave to take a top federal position, said the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they aren’t officially authorized to disclose the information.
The news, which is confirmed by ABC News, means that former Representative Jim Ramstad probably won’t be joining the Obama Administration. This, of course, means that the Rammer will be free to pursue a gubernatorial run in the event that Tim Pawlenty elects not to seek a third term.
Ramstad would be a strong candidate in a general election because of his moderate ideology and the general goodwill he has built among Minnesotans (particularly in the 3rd District). I wonder, however, if he would be able to escape a GOP primary. Then again, the Republican bench is so thin in Minnesota right now, there might not be a conservative with the stature and fundraising abilities necessary to defeat Ramstad.
Not surprising, he wanted to run Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and still has a shot at that.
I still seriously doubt the Republican base is smart enough to let Ramstad get nominated.
Maybe he can be the new Commerce Secretary. I hear they have an(other) opening.
We really don’t need the government to get involved in contractural arrangements with our insurers. If I don’t want to be insured for certain things, why make me pay for it? Why can’t I have choices? Why can’t my employeer have choices?
If the Ranmmer had been MN Gov the estimated $7B budget deficit we are now in would be even worse. No Thanks.