Friday, March 21, 2008

It's not hard to find critics -- Democrats and Republicans alike -- who will find fault with Governor Carcieri's staff. Now, Jeff Neal, the governor's spokesman, and someone about whom is never heard a discouraging word, is preparing to leave the administration, in or before late June. From the gov's office:

“Jeff Neal has been an important part of my administration since the very beginning,” Governor Carcieri said. “Day after day for over five years, Jeff has accurately, effectively and aggressively communicated my administration's policies to the media and to the people of Rhode Island. I appreciate his skill, hard work and determination to make sure the administration's side of every story is always represented. Jeff has been a great asset to my administration and he will be sorely missed.”

 

“Over the last five years, I have enjoyed working to support Governor Carcieri's reform agenda for Rhode Island,” Jeff Neal said. “In that time, the Governor has achieved a number of notable successes. I want to thank the Governor for providing me with the opportunity to serve his administration, and for the trust and faith he has shown in my abilities.”

 

“After five years, however, I believe it is time to begin seeking new challenges and opportunities,” Neal concluded. “I first approached the Governor about leaving state service in September. He asked me to stay on, first through January and later through the end of the current legislative session. As a result, I will be leaving by the end of June. After my departure, I will continue to support the Governor and his efforts to bring change to the Ocean State.”

Neal is everything that a spokesman should be: he returns calls promptly, he is informed, and he will find the answers if he doesn't already have them. He is articulate, a forceful advocate for his employer, and he manages to have a sense of humor at the same time. I've enjoyed working with Jeff, and I wish him well as he prepares to move on.