AUSTIN — Lt. Governor David Dewhurst today named Blaine Brunson as Chief of Staff, and Julia Rathgeber as Deputy Chief of Staff, effective immediately.

"Blaine and Julia have profound knowledge of state government, policy and the budget, and I'm delighted to have them assume these added responsibilities," said Lt. Governor Dewhurst. "As my long-time budget director, Blaine has played a key role in working with all 31 senators and myself to craft balanced budgets that deliver record tax cuts and keep our state spending low, resulting in our Texas economy being the envy of the nation. As Policy Director, Julia has been highly successful in working with our senators and myself to draft and pass landmark legislation on important issues such as lawsuit abuse, child protection laws and reforms to our Texas healthcare system."

Prior to serving as Chief of Staff, Brunson served as budget director for the Lieutenant Governor's Office beginning in 2003. "I appreciate Lt. Governor Dewhurst's trust and confidence in appointing me to this position," said Brunson. "I'm proud to serve the people of this great state on behalf of Lt. Governor Dewhurst and I look forward to continuing the progress we've made in making Texas a great place to live, work and raise a family."

Brunson began working in state government in 1996 and has worked for the Legislative Budget Board, the House Appropriations Committee and the Senate Finance Committee. He has a Business Degree from Angelo State University and an M.B.A. from Texas State University.

Rathgeber has served as policy director for the Lieutenant Governor's Office since 2003. She also served on former Lt. Governor Bob Bullock's staff, as well as in senior positions with the General Land Office and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Rathgeber has a Bachelor of Arts Degree and Law Degree, both from the University of Texas-Austin.