In a recent turn of events, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek publicly addressed the duties and boundaries of the First Spouse’s role. Amid ongoing conversations and concerns, Kotek took to the web to clarify her stance and her administration's policies regarding the position her partner, First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson, will take during the Governor's term.
According to a statement released from the Governor's office, Kotek apologized for not "being more thoughtful in my approach to exploring the role of the First Spouse" and promised to earnestly tackle Oregon's pressing issues. Preferring to rather focus her energy on combating the state's homelessness and housing crisis, as well as boosting mental health support and improving educational outcomes, Kotek aims to keep her administration strictly professional and transparent.
The First Lady, who has been with Kotek for two decades, aligns with the Governor's dedication to serving the vulnerable and striving for a fairer society. As a volunteer, without state employment or outside income, Wilson's role aims to avoid any perceived or real conflicts of interest. Highlighting her background in social work, Governor Kotek highlighted her spouse's valuable experience and unpaid commitment to serving Oregon's communities.
The Governor was clear to dispel any notion that a distinct office, or a Chief of Staff-like figure for the First Spouse, will be established, saying that "There will not be an Office of the First Spouse. There will not be a position of Chief of Staff to the First Spouse." Also noted was the administrative move to begin drafting a First Spouse Manual, aiming to clearly map out the protocols and policies pertaining to the position, and clarify the treatment of any staff concerns or complaints. This manual, despite not yet being finalized, is being shaped with input from ethics authorities and past precedents in other states.
In the interim, as the Oregon Government Ethics Commission's (OGEC) guidance is awaited, First Lady Wilson will continue to support Governor Kotek by attending official events, and focusing on connecting Oregonians with their government, particularly on issues of mental health and addiction. The pursuit of transparency with Oregon's public is a cornerstone of Kotek's approach as she vows to "continue to work hard to solve problems so that every Oregonian can have what they need."
