Governor Bill Lee Announces Key Governor's Office Appointments

  • Friday, November 12, 2021

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee on Friday announced long-time advisor and chief of staff Blake Harris is departing to oversee the governor’s re-election and assist in key Republican Governors Association efforts.

 

Joseph Williams, currently the governor’s office director of external affairs, will assume the chief of staff role at the end of the year.

Mr. Williams earned his J.D. and bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University.

 

“Blake’s leadership and friendship have been invaluable to Maria and me since the beginning of our campaign,” said Governor Lee.  “I join Tennesseans in thanking Blake for his service to our state as his leadership ensured administrative priorities became a reality. We look forward to continued success as Joseph assumes chief of staff responsibilities and continues our efforts to serve Tennesseans well.” 

 

Alec Richardson, the governor’s deputy chief of staff, will remain in his current role and assume key responsibilities as the director of external affairs. Mr. Richardson earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of Tennessee at Martin.

 

Both Mr. Williams and Mr. Richardson have served Governor Lee since his successful primary run in August 2018.

Breaking News
Latest Hamilton County Arrest Report
  • 7/9/2025

Here is the latest Hamilton County arrest report. (If your case is dismissed, just email us your name and date we ran it and we will promptly take off. Email to news@chattanoogan.com ) ALBAN,JONATHAN ... more

Dade County High School Student Struck And Killed By Train
  • 7/8/2025

A Dade County High School was struck and killed by a train in Trenton Monday morning. The incident happened at 11:30 a.m. near the Highway 136 East overpass. Principal Brent Cooper said, ... more

TDOT Holds Hearing On I-24 Widening, Including Around Congested Moccasin Bend
TDOT Holds Hearing On I-24 Widening, Including Around Congested Moccasin Bend
  • 7/8/2025

The Tennessee Department of Transportation hosted a public meeting on Tuesday to gather community input on a proposed project that would widen approximately 10 miles of I-24 from the I-24/I-59 ... more