Parnell keeping key aides

JUNEAU - Gov. Sean Parnell is retaining key aides and members of his inner circle, including chief of staff Mike Nizich.

This comes amid a shakeup of his Cabinet following his election last month.

Other staff he's retaining include budget director Karen Rehfeld; Washington, D.C.-based special counsel John Katz; deputy chief of staff Randy Ruaro; international trade director Cindy Sims; legislative director Heather Brakes and senior adviser for rural affairs John Moller.

Parnell was sworn in to his first full term Monday. He'd held the job for more than a year prior, having taking over when Sarah Palin quit. Nizich served as a Palin chief of staff.

The Cabinet shakeup was part of Parnell's push to bring new energy into state government. Members were sworn in Tuesday.