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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.

U.S. Attorney Asks Oregon To Pause Investigation Of Kitzhaber

Chris Lehman
/
Northwest News Network
Federal investigators have requested that Oregon delay it's own investigation of former Governor John Kitzhaber

The state probe into ethics allegations against former Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber is being halted, at least for now.

Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum said the state investigation will continue once a federal review is complete per a request from federal investigators.

Rosenblum emphasized in her statement that she does think Oregonians deserve a ?“thorough review of the allegations surrounding the now-former governor” and his fiancée.

Rosenblum said the U.S. Attorney's Office has agreed to share information with the state once the federal investigation is complete.

Kitzhaber stepped down from office February 18 amid allegations that he and his fiancee, Cylvia Hayes, sold access to the governor’s office to groups that wanted to shape public policy.

Kitzhaber has repeatedly said he’s done nothing wrong.