Gregoire to reappoint Lowenberg to Guard

OLYMPIA — Gov.-elect Christine Gregoire yesterday said she will reappoint Maj. Gen. Timothy Lowenberg to head the Washington National Guard.

It is her first announced appointment, and she said yesterday that it would be the only Cabinet post filled before she is sworn in Wednesday.

"I think of him as one of the best and brightest," Gregoire said of Lowenberg. "I want no downtime."

Lowenberg has served as adjutant general since 1999. He is in command of the Army and Air National Guards and the Emergency Management Division.

He was not available for comment yesterday, but in a statement released by Gregoire's transition office, he said, "I am grateful for the confidence expressed by Governor-elect Gregoire and for the opportunity to continue to serve the citizens of Washington in the critical area of domestic preparedness."

Lowenberg began his military career as a judge advocate at McChord Air Force Base.

He is an adjunct professor of law at the Seattle University School of Law.

Gregoire said that every other Cabinet position will be open to a competitive process, though some people now serving outgoing Gov. Gary Locke are being considered for reappointment.

By her inauguration next week, Gregoire said she hopes to have the Governor's Office staff in place, including a chief of staff.