Second term changes for Delaware Governor Jack Markell

Before his second term gets underway, the first transition in Governor Markell’s staff is already taking place.  

 

Markell’s Chief of Staff Tom McGonigle will be leaving the administration to return to private law practice at prominent Delaware law firm, Drinker Biddle.  Markell has named Michael Barlow as his new chief of staff.  

In a statement announcing the change, Markell says McGonigle helped guide the administration through tough economic waters at the start of Markell’s first term four years ago.  “When Tom took the job as Chief of Staff, we were facing grueling economic challenges and he helped us navigate through those extremely difficult circumstances.”  

Barlow moves into the Chief of Staff position from his former spot as Markell’s Chief Legal Counsel, where he’s been since 2009.  “I welcome Mike to his new role with great confidence in his leadership abilities,” said Markell.  “Mike has capably handled policy and legal issues and is well-positioned to move into the role of Chief of Staff.”

In addition to providing legal advice to Markell, Barlow has also been policy director for the administration, which should make for an easy transition in the Chief of Staff position.

The change in staff will take effect Monday, December 3.