SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Gov. John Kitzhaber says it was "an interesting experience" to watch President Barack Obama's State of the Union address from one of the best seats in the U.S. House.
Kitzhaber was one of about two dozen guests invited by White House officials to watch the speech with first lady Michelle Obama.
The governor said Wednesday that he didn't speak with the president but the Obama administration is very interested in Oregon's efforts to lower the cost of health care. Kitzhaber says Oregon will save millions by improving preventive care and finding new ways to pay doctors and hospitals.
Obama didn't specifically address Oregon or Kitzhaber in his speech. But the president said medical bills should be based on the quality of care, not the number of procedures.
