Governor Sam Brownback has moved one step closer to leaving Kansas and taking a job in the Trump administration.
For a second time, a committee in the U.S. Senate has approved his nomination to become ambassador for international religious freedom. Brownback was initially selected by President Trump in July, but a procedural error sent his nomination back to square one at the end of the year.
This vote puts Brownback's nomination right back where it had been for several months: awaiting final approval from the full U.S. Senate.
Given the delays, Brownback said this week that he isn’t packing his bags just yet.
“It appears to be progressing, but I am not going to make any comments on timing,” he said. “Watch what actually happens. That’s the key.”
Brownback had hoped to be confirmed well before now and had already handed over some duties to his lieutenant governor, Jeff Colyer. But after his confirmation was delayed, Brownback said he would not step down until he’s officially confirmed as ambassador.