Kan. Governor Draws National Attention

Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius answers a question during an interview at the Statehouse in Topeka, Kan. Thursday, Dec. 21, 2006. Sebelius is seen as a rising star in the Democratic party as Democrats are make a run to gain control of the white house. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) (Charlie Riedel - AP)

Kansas has long been a springboard for Republicans, most notably Eisenhower, whose presidential library is in Abilene, about 160 miles west of Kansas City, Mo. Sen. Charles Curtis served as vice president in 1929-33. Gov. Alf Landon was the GOP nominee for president in 1936. Dole was Senate majority leader before his failed presidential bid in 1996.

Brownback is considered a long shot for the GOP presidential nomination in 2008, but he's got support from the religious right and conservative groups.

Some Republicans suggested Sebelius wouldn't serve out a second term as governor because she'd be tapped for a presidential ticket, and many believe she's eyeing a run in 2010 for the Senate seat now held by Brownback, who has said he won't seek re-election.

Sebelius dismisses such ideas, saying she likes her current job.

However, some Kansans wouldn't mind seeing her on the Democratic ticket next year.

"Anything's possible," said Rachel Camp, director of a church day care center in Topeka. "She shows a lot of good qualities that would be assets to our government. I'd probably vote for her."

___

On the Net:

Governor's office: http://www.ksgovernor.org/