Governor-elect Beshear announces initial governor’s office appointments

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WTVQ) – Gov.-elect Andy Beshear has announced four people that will serve in his administration when he is sworn into office.

“I am pleased to announce four folks who share my vision for Kentucky and, I know, because I have worked with them day-in and day-out in the Capitol over the past four years,” Beshear said. “They are talented, dedicated and passionate public servants who work on behalf of all Kentuckians.”

Beshear named J. Michael Brown, of Louisville, as the secretary of the executive cabinet. In this role, Brown will lead a team in carrying out the work of the Executive Branch. Brown currently serves as Beshear’s deputy attorney general and is the chair of the gubernatorial transition team.

La Tasha Buckner, of Lexington, who is also serving as co-chair of the governor’s office transition team, was named general counsel of the Office of the Governor. The Office of General Counsel serves as a legal liaison to the governor, provides legal advice and coordinates with general counsel across state government.

Travis Mayo, of Louisville, will join Buckner as deputy general counsel for the Office of the Governor.

Crystal Staley, of Lexington, will be the director of communications for the governor’s office. Staley is currently the communications director for the Office of the Attorney General. In her new role, she will work on behalf of the administration to bridge the communication gap between government, the media and Kentucky families.