Sylvia Mathews Burwell, President Obama’s nominee to succeed Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, faces a series of hurdles.
Burwell, who is currently the director of the White House Office and Management Budget has a lot of experience under her belt. She also served in a series of positions in the Clinton White House.
If confirmed, she would be in charge of implementing the Affordable Care Act, and with Congressional Republicans still opposed to that signature act, she is likely to face some sharp questioning before confirmation.
Burwell needs to win over Congress not only to be confirmed, but also to secure more funding to implement the law and to pass changes to it. Democrats facing re-election this year are also looking for someone who can help them win over voters who are skeptical about the new health law.
Burwell will also have to reassure insurance companies who have been unhappy with sudden changes in policy by the White House, including extending key deadlines.
ABC News political director Rick Klein joins Here & Now’s Jeremy Hobson to discuss Burwell’s nomination and the challenges she faces.
Guest
- Rick Klein, political director for ABC News. He tweets @rickklein.
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