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Dispatches from public radio's correspondent at the Oregon Legislature. This is a venue for political and policy coverage of the state government in Salem and its impact on the people of Oregon.

Oregon Attorney General Says She's Investigating Governor Kitzhaber

Office of the Governor
Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum has opened an investigation of Governor John Kitzhaber and first lady Cylvia Hayes.

Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum has opened an investigation of Governor John Kitzhaber and first lady Cylvia Hayes.

The investigation came to light Monday after the governor sent a letter asking the attorney general to review allegations he has faced since last year.

The governor's letter to Rosenblum said he'd welcome a full review of all questions and allegations against him. The attorney general responsed, ”My office has already opened an investigation into this matter. I appreciate your intent to cooperate fully."

The allegations concern consulting contracts received by Oregon first lady Cylvia Hayes to promote policies favored by Kitzhaber. Critics of the governor say Hayes was essentially selling access to the governor and that Kitzhaber was intentionally looking the other way.

Separately, the Oregon Government Ethics Commission is also looking into the situation. That panel can only levy civil penalties.