U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) has named a new chief of staff to replace Stephen Boyd, who was Tuberville’s first announced hire before he took office.

Mary Blanche Hankey, a Florence native, has previously served at the U.S. Department of Justice as assistant attorney general and chief of staff and counselor in the Office of Legislative Affairs. She was also the White House liaison in the Office of the Attorney General and served as legislative counsel to former U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions.

She has been serving as chief counsel and policy advisor with Tuberville’s office most recently.

“Mary Blanche Hankey is the model of leadership with integrity, and I am proud to have her assume the role of chief of staff,” said Tuberville. “Mary Blanche’s experience and work ethic have made her [a] valuable member of our team since the beginning, and I am confident she will continue to serve her state and country at the highest possible level. In just two years, our office has accomplished much on behalf of the state, but it takes a dedicated team of public servants in Washington and across the state to represent Alabamians in the U.S. Senate. Mary Blanche will be the steadfast leader that [the] team needs to continue to deliver.”

Boyd, who has a similar resume to Hankey, announced his departure from government affairs earlier this week.

“Stephen Boyd exemplifies the values Alabamians hold dear,” Tuberville said. “His service to his country, loyalty to his beliefs, and pursuit of excellence have made him an invaluable part of my team. When I was elected, my first order of business was building a staff with the knowledge and skills required to deliver for my constituents. As a lifelong Alabamian with years of experience on Capitol Hill and at the Department of Justice, Stephen was the first person I asked to serve in our office. His leadership has been the foundation of a team I am very proud to see working for the people of Alabama every day. I am thankful for his service, and I look forward to seeing what he achieves in the future.”

Boyd has been in public service for nearly two decades but said he was ready to pursue other opportunities.

To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.

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