Representative Blaine Galliher (R-Gadsden) will soon be vacating his House seat after 17 years of service to the people of Etowah and St. Clair counties. He will be taking a job in the Bentley administration as the Governor’s legislative director.

“Blaine and I have worked together for many years, dating back to my time in the Alabama Legislature. He is a proven leader with a strong record of public service, and I look forward to Blaine joining my Cabinet and continuing our mission of improving state government for the people of Alabama,” Governor Bentley said. “Working alongside the Alabama Legislature, we will continue to pass legislation that creates jobs, right-sizes state government and improves the lives of Alabamians.”

Galliher cut his teeth in the House in the mid-90s when Republicans were greatly outnumbered in the legislature. He rose up through the ranks, ultimately becoming the powerful Chairman of the House Rules Committee once Republicans were swept into power in 2010.

“Blaine is an exceptional lawmaker and a trusted friend,” House Speaker Mike Hubbard said. “I don’t know of anyone more qualified to help guide Governor Bentley’s legislative efforts. As much as I hate to lose him from my leadership team in the House, I’m confident this move will only enhance the positive working relationship between the Executive and Legislative Branches.”

“Representative Galliher is a model statesman and has always been a pleasure to work with,” said Senate President Pro Tem Del Marsh. “This move further solidifies the already positive working relationship between Governor Bentley’s administration and the Legislature, and we look forward to working with Representative Galliher in his new role.”

The Governor is acquiring an experienced operator who is well-liked and respected on both the 5th and 7th floors of the State House. Yellowhammer Politics named Galliher #26 on our 2012 Power & Influence 40 list which counted down the 40 most powerful and influential individuals in Alabama politics.

“I would like to thank the people of District 30 for the honor and privilege of representing them in the Alabama Legislature for so many years,” Galliher added. “I am proud of our accomplishments, and I look forward to continuing my service to the people of Alabama as I work with Governor Bentley to accomplish his legislative agenda.”