Gov. Tom Corbett has confirmed that he's replacing chief of staff William Ward.
Corbett announced Thursday that he's nominating his longtime friend to fill a vacant seat on the Allegheny County Common Pleas Court. Corbett said he has named Stephen Aichele (AY-chuhl), previously his top legal adviser, to take over as chief of staff.
A spokesman for the Republican governor says this isn't a move to respond to persistent criticism by some Republican legislators about his prowess at politics and persuasion. The governor says serving as a judge was a long-time dream for the 60-year-old Ward and that he's happy to help his old friend make it come true.
Ward's nomination will require confirmation by the state Senate.
Copyright AP - Associated Press