Washington, DC - Congressman John D. Dingell (D-MI15), Chairman Emeritus of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, made the following statement on President Barack Obama’s selection of Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius to lead the Department of Health and Human Services.

“I commend President Obama on his selection of Governor Kathleen Sebelius as the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services.  In Governor Sebelius, President Obama has found an experienced executive with a deep knowledge of complex health issues.  There is no doubt in my mind that she will provide a steady hand and the leadership we need at the Department. The Governor has fought some tough battles in Kansas in trying to reform the system there.  That experience will serve her well here in Washington.

“I urge my colleagues in the Senate to expedite her confirmation so she can begin overseeing the important work of the Department. 

“I am also encouraged by President Obama’s appointment of Nancy-Anne DeParle as the Director of the White House Office for Health Reform.  She is one of the nation’s leading experts on health care and regulatory issues, which makes her a perfect candidate for the job.  As commissioner of the Department of Human Services in Tennessee, she saw firsthand our health care system’s impact on workers and families. 

“Governor Sebelius and Nancy-Ann DeParle make an outstanding team.  I look forward to working with these two dedicated public servants on one of the most pressing issues of our time—health care.”