California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced the appointment of Nathan Barankin as his new Chief of Staff (COS). This action follows the departure of his former COS Dana Williamson, who served in that position for nearly two years and reportedly left the position on December 13. These types of high staff changes are not unusual as an administration approaches the end of its term.
Mr. Barankin has an accomplished political career, having twice served Vice President Kamala Harris, both in her role as California’s Attorney General and as the state’s U.S. Senator. His background with the California Department of Justice is noteworthy given Governor Newsom’s commitment to legally defend California’s values against an incoming Trump Administration.
Mr. Barankin earned a Juris Doctor degree from McGeorge School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of California, Davis. This position does not require Senate confirmation
For more information on Mr. Barankin, check out this news article from POLITICO.