Daniel Scarpinato named chief of staff for Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey

PHOENIX – Daniel Scarpinato will take over as chief of staff for Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey, succeeding Kirk Adams, who announced his retirement Monday.

Scarpinato was formerly Ducey’s deputy chief of staff for communications and strategic planning and served as senior adviser on the governor’s successful re-election campaign.

“Daniel’s experience, his ability to solve problems, and his reputation for working with others to get things done gives me great confidence in his ability to lead our exceptional team as we advance an agenda of opportunity for all,” Ducey said in a press release.

Scarpinato’s credentials include stints as press secretary for the National Republican Congressional Committee and as an education and political reporter for the Arizona Daily Star.

Ducey also announced that Gretchen Conger will expand her duties as his sole deputy chief of staff. She had been deputy chief of staff for policy and budget.

The governor praised his new appointees in a series of tweets.

Daniel @Scarpinato has been a key part of our success since day one. He’s built a reputation as a leader, collaborator and problem solver. I have every confidence in his ability to serve as my new Chief of Staff. 2/3

— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) November 26, 2018

Gretchen Conger is a leader in our state for her deep expertise in policy, budget and legislative affairs — in her new, elevated and expanded role as Deputy Chief of Staff, @AZGretchen will help ensure our success in moving Arizona forward. 3/3

— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) November 26, 2018

Adams has been Ducey’s chief of staff for four years.

He said in a series of tweets that he was resigning to “return to the private sector” and play some golf.

However, there is speculation that he could be named to the U.S. Senate should Sen. Jon Kyl step down in January.

Adams’ last day on Ducey’s staff will be Dec. 14.

Scarpinato was named as Adams’ successor several hours after Adams announced he was resigning.

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