Babcock out as chief of staff

JUNEAU —In a turn of events on Wednesday, Gov. Mike Dunleavy announced he has new chief of staff.

Tuckerman Babcock has stepped down as chief of staff, according to a release issued by the governor’s office, and will be replaced for former state senator Ben Stevens. Babcock will remain a part of the Dunleavy administration in a new role as senior policy advisor for strategic affairs.

“It’s been a privilege to have Tuckerman Babcock serve as my chief of staff, and I’m grateful for his continued service and commitment to the state of Alaska,” Dunleavy said in the statement. “I’m confident that both Ben and Tuckerman’s leadership will continue to help us carry out this administration’s goals and agenda.”

Babcock, who had been the chair of the Alaska GOP, served as Dunleavy’s chief of staff since the administration assumed office on the third floor.

“I’m excited to serve as senior policy advisor for strategic affairs,” Babcock said in the statement. “This is a move I requested to the governor, which allows me to concentrate on the areas I can best serve the governor’s agenda. This will be a smooth internal transition. I have enjoyed working with Ben these past eight months and we know he is more than qualified to serve as chief of staff to Gov. Dunleavy.”

Stevens is a former state senator, serving for six years after he was appointed by former governor Tony Knowles in 2001. Stevens as the senate majority leader and the senate president during his time in office. He is the son of the late Sen. Ted Stevens, who spent more than 40 as a U.S. Senator representing Alaska.

Dunleavy’s press secretary Matt Shuckerow was unable for additional comment as of Wednesday afternoon.

This is a developing story. Continue to see frontiersman.com fore more.

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