Will Obama tap Minnesotans?

Last update: November 9, 2008 - 11:34 PM

WILL OBAMA TAP MINNESOTANS?

As the Obama administration takes shape, the names of several prominent Minnesotans have surfaced for possible roles. Here's a look at what they've had to say:

U.S. Rep. Collin Peterson: As a nine-term congressman and chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, Peterson has been mentioned as a possible secretary of agriculture. Although he said last week that he's been contacted by the Obama camp to gauge his interest, he said he's happy with his current role. "The problem is if you're a secretary, you have to do what the administration wants," he said. "I'm not very good at that."

U.S. Reps. Jim Oberstar and Betty McCollum: Oberstar, chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, has been mentioned as a possible secretary of transportation, while McCollum's name has come up for a possible role in the Department of Education. Neither spoke of any contact about a post, and Oberstar said he'd need certain assurances to make the move. McCollum said she'd "look at it seriously," if asked.

Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak: One of the first elected officials to publicly back the president-elect, Rybak has been suggested for a role in the Department of Housing and Urban Development or the Environmental Protection Agency. In either department, he would be dealing with issues he cares deeply about. Rybak said he couldn't see himself leaving Minnesota -- though, he added he'd "never say never."

MITCH ANDERSON

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