Kathleen Sebelius Confirmed As U.S. Health & Human Services Secretary

Kathleen Sebelius has resigned as Kansas governor after winning confirmation as U.S. health and human services secretary.

The Democrat’s resignation late Tuesday afternoon automatically elevated Lt. Gov. Mark Parkinson to governor. Parkinson is a former Kansas Republican Party chairman who switched parties in 2006 to be Sebelius’ running mate.

Sebelius spokeswoman Seth Bundy says Sebelius will travel to Washington to be sworn in as secretary.

Sebelius submitted a letter of resignation to the Kansas secretary of state before Tuesday’s vote. The letter took effect upon the 65-31 U.S. Senate vote approving her appointment by President Barack Obama.

Her office also announced that Parkinson would be sworn in as governor Tuesday evening.