Top Haley staffer headed to University of SC

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — One of Gov. Nikki Haley’s top deputies is leaving to join the University of South Carolina.

The State newspaper reported Friday that (http://bit.ly/nlJhdH ) deputy chief of staff Trey Walker is leaving Haley’s staff to become the chief lobbyist for USC.

Walker has been responsible for legislative affairs and communications for the governor. He was paid nearly $123,000 a year.

His new job at USC will pay $135,000 annually.

Another of Haley’s deputy chiefs of staff, Ted Pitts, will become the legislative liaison for the governor. Pitts is a former House member from Lexington.

The university is creating the position for Walker. USC vice president Luanne Lawrence says Walker has the contacts with lawmakers and the governor’s office that the school wants.

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Information from: The State, http://www.thestate.com