Delaware’s Governor becomes Vice-Chair of National Governors Association

Governor Jack Markell of Delaware has been named vice-chairman of the National Governors Association, which puts him in line to lead the organization in 2012-13. 

Markell’s peers made the choice at the conclusion of the NGA’s 103rd annual meeting in Washington DC.  The first-term Governor also previously chaired the Democratic Governors Association.

“This leadership role not only gives our state greater access to some of the nation’s most innovative solutions, but it will also help shine a nationwide spotlight on the work we’re doing in Delaware,” Markell said.  He added that it will also be an ooportunity to share Delaware’s tendency to identify common goals and work collaboratively on issues such as job creation with businesses and states around the nation.

Outgoing NGA Chair Christine Gregoire (D-Washington) praised the selection of Markell as Vice-Chair.  “Governor Markell will be a valuable addition to the NGA.  He understands that education and innovation are pathways to jobs and he brings an approach to problem solving and collaboration that gets all parties moving in the right direction,” Gregoire said.

Markell has held positions in the National Governors Association dealing with education standards, finance, economic development and other issues.

This year’s incoming NGA Chairman is Republican Governor Dave Heineman of Nebraska. 

Former Delaware Governor, and now-US Senator, Tom Carper chaired the NGA in 1998-99, and Governor James Caleb Boggs also chaired the Association in 1959-60.