Walz prepares to reveal commissioner picks for start of second term

It's not certain that Harrington will stay on as public safety commissioner
Walz and Harrington
Public safety commissioner John Harrington may stay on to begin Walz's second term Photo credit Audacy

Gov. Walz is scheduled Wednesday to reveal his new set of commissioners to begin his second term.

WCCO political analyst Blois Olson said that returnees should include Agriculture commissioner Thom Petersen, budget manager Jim Schowalter, education commissioner Dr. Heather Mueller, and department of labor commissioner Steve Grove.

There is question about the status of public safety commissioner John Harrington

"He's a trusted voice, he had good relationships throughout the state, he has a good relationship with Attorney General Keith Elllison," Olson said. "If public safety is still going to be one of the things that the administration is going to have to work on, having a transition there could be a challenge."

Walz has indicated an interest in breaking up the massive Health and Human Services agency.

"It has gotten so big, and if the legislature decides to work with the governor on that, that's another commissioner to watch," Olson said.

Also, Iron Range Rehab board commissioner Mark Phillips is expected to announce his retirement, while health commissioner Jan Malcolm's will likely retire early in the coming year.

Revenue commissioner Robert Doty still hasn't been replaced after announcing his retirement before the election.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Audacy