This is a developing story

Gov. Mike Dunleavy’s chief of staff is leaving his post for a position with ConocoPhillips Alaska, the governor’s office announced.

Ben Stevens will become the new vice president of external affairs and transportation for ConocoPhillips Alaska, the governor’s office said in a news release. His last day in the governor’s office will be announced soon.

Stevens has long had a presence in the Dunleavy administration. He was announced as Dunleavy’s chief of staff in late July 2019 and was named as a policy adviser for the Dunleavy administration in late 2018.

Stevens, who is the son of the late U.S. Sen. Ted Stevens, previously served as president of the Alaska Senate and was once the subject of a corruption investigation by federal authorities.

Dunleavy wished Stevens well in his new position in a news release.

“I want to thank Ben for his hard work and service to the State of Alaska the past two years,” Dunleavy said in the release. “His knowledge and political acumen have been an asset to the administration and I wish him the very best in his new role at ConocoPhillips Alaska.”

Deputy Chief of Staff Randy Ruaro will serve as acting chief of staff until a permanent replacement is named, according to the governor’s office.

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