Some pundits suggest Rep. James Oberstar (D., MN), Chair of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, could be near the top of the list for Transportation Secretary in the Obama administration.

But, the 18 term Representative from Northeastern Minnesota said he would be unlikely to accept the position if offered.

“It would take a lot. The bar is high. I’d have to have very keen assurance — a meeting of the minds between President Elect Obama and myself, on the agenda that I foresee for transportation for the future,” Rep. Oberstar said.

A potential reason for Rep. Oberstar’s hesitation could be the impending Transporation Bill his committee will hear in the coming legislative session – a bill that will shape transportation funding in America for the next six years.