Governor Nelson on List For Secretary of Energy
Nebraska Gov. Ben Nelson, who was defeated by Republican
Chuck Hagel in the race to succeed Democratic Senator James Exon, emerged
recently as the latest entry as replacement Hazel O'Leary as Secretary of
Energy.
Sources in Washington and Nebraska said Nelson, whose second term
expires in 1999, had been contacted by the White House about the possibility of
taking over at the U.S. Department of Energy.
A spokesperson for the Gov.
said Nelson would not rule out accepting a post in the Administration if one is
formally offered. Nelson is aware of efforts to promote his name in Washington,
the spokesperson said. Nelson is also backed by a number of state energy
officials and consumer groups, who are applauding both his knowledge of energy
issues and his record on the environment.
Rumors around Washington
continue to give Representative Bill Richardson (D-NM), the inside track for the
job, but sources said some opposition to his nomination may be
building.
For more information contact Bob Harris, Director, Nebraska
Energy Office, (402) 471- 2867.
