Oregon Democrats are calling for Gov. John Kitzhaber (D) to step down amid an ethics scandal.
It’s just the latest development in an odd ordeal that includes Kitzhaber reportedly calling his secretary of State back to Oregon to take the state’s reins before ultimately changing his mind.
The state Senate president and House Speaker both met with the governor Thursday morning to ask for his resignation, according to KOIN 6 in Portland. The governor currently faces a corruption investigation over his fiancee Cylvia Hayes’s use of government funds and influence within the administration.
{mosads}The governor’s office denies allegations that she held any official role in the government despite the fact that she filled in for the governor during events, worked in the Statehouse and had a picture on the state’s website with the title of “first lady.”
Secretary of State Kate Brown said in a statement that the governor called her Tuesday and asked her to fly back from a conference in Washington, D.C., as soon as possible to speak to him “in person and alone.” The Oregonian reported that Kitzhaber did so because he had decided to resign before ultimately changing his mind.
Upon returning to the state and meeting with the governor, Brown said that Kitzhaber asked her why she had flown back.
“The governor told me he was not resigning, after which he began a discussion about transition,” Brown said. She’s next in line for the governor’s office if Kitzhaber resigns.
“This is clearly a bizarre and unprecedented situation,” she continued. “I informed the governor that I am ready, and my staff will be ready, should he resign.”
If Brown does become governor, she would be the first openly bisexual governor in U.S. history.
The confusing political drama has dominated the news in Oregon, and The Oregonian has set up a live blog charting the most recent twists and turns.