On Monday, Governor-elect Ron DeSantis’ Transition Team announced key staff recruited to lead transition operations for the Governor-elect. James Blair, Chris Clark, Drew Meiner, Amanda Emmons, Ben Gibson, Dave Vasquez, and Claire Whitehead will serve among the first hires of the operation.
“We are excited to announce this great team of professionals who will help us build a larger staffing framework to serve Governor-elect DeSantis,” Transition Executive Director Susie Wiles said in a written statement. “This team will not only be dedicated to Governor-elect DeSantis and his administration, but also to the State of Florida, as we work together to establish an administration to secure Florida’s future.”
James Blair, Director of Policy
The longtime advisor to House Speaker Richard Corcoran and Enterprise Florida board member will serve as director of policy for the transition efforts.
Chris Clark, Director of Recruiting
The longtime advisor to Gov. Jeb Bush and former chief of staff to Florida Senate President Don Gaetz will serve as director of recruiting for the transition.
Drew Meiner, Director of Operations
The former deputy campaign manager for operations of the DeSantis campaign and recent deputy district director for DeSantis’ congressional office will serve as director of operations for the transition.
Amanda Emmons, director of scheduling
The former staff assistant for Republican Sen. Marco Rubio and DeSantis campaign aide will serve as director of scheduling for the DeSantis Transition team.
Ben Gibson, General Counsel
Longtime deputy general counsel to Gov. Rick Scott and current partner at Shutts & Bowen LLP will serve as general counsel to the DeSantis Transition.
Dave Vasquez, Press Secretary
The former campaign manager to Rep. Bob Cortes and longtime DeSantis communications aide will serve as press secretary for the transition team.
Claire Whitehead, Assistant to Incoming First Lady
The former appointments analyst and regional representative for Gov. Rick Scott will serve as assistant to incoming First Lady Casey DeSantis.
