Quinn Names New Chief of Staff

Illinois Governor Pat Quinn Tuesday tapped his Secretary of Human Services Michelle Saddler to replace the recently-resigned Jerry Stermer.

"We're good friends and very good working partners," Quinn said during a press conference to announce her. "Michelle understands the way I operate which is to put the people first."

Quinn was forced to find a new chief after Stermer resigned in the wake of an ethics probe over the use of state owned email to correspond about campaign matters.

Saddler said she was, pleased, if not thrilled to learn about her promotion.

"I was disconcerted when the governor called me," Saddler said, referring to the mini-scandal that preceded her appointment. "This was not something I foresaw."

Saddler has worked for Quinn as director of policy in the past. She was appointed to DHS in October 2009.

"I work hard. I believe in honesty all the way," she said.  "I believe in partnerships and I look forward to partnering with all of our state agencies."

Quinn said he expect the two to work together well.

"Michelle understands the way I operate which is to put the people first," the governor said.

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