Attorney General Craig Richards Resigns

This announcement came in just moments ago from the Governor’s Office:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                             No. 16-56

Contact:                      Katie Marquette, Press Secretary — (907) 269-7447
Cori Mills, Department of Law — (907) 465-2132

Governor Walker Announces Mid-Term Cabinet Change
Craig Richards Steps Down as Attorney General

June 23, 2016 ANCHORAGE–Governor Bill Walker today accepted the resignation of Attorney General Craig Richards, who said he is stepping down to focus on his family.

“With great reluctance, I have accepted Craig’s resignation,” Governor Walker said. “When I appointed Craig in December 2014 as Attorney General, I knew Alaskans would benefit from his deep respect for the law and his vast knowledge of finance. As the state’s top attorney, work has pulled him away from his 3-year-old son, and I am grateful for the sacrifices he and his family have made in service to Alaska. Given Craig’s knowledge of gasline issues, I’m certain the state will continue to benefit from his oil and gas expertise as we push toward completion of a project.”

General Richards said the decision was not an easy one to make, but valued the opportunity to serve Alaskans during an important time in state history.

“It is with a heavy heart that I announce my resignation as Attorney General,” said Attorney General Craig Richards. “I support the Governor and was honored to serve as the head of the State’s legal team. My reasons for leaving are personal. I feel I need to re-focus on my family, which is impractical given the travel and workload requirements of the job. The Department of Law has top notch lawyers, and I know the State is in good hands with these devoted public servants.”

Mr. Richards’ last day as Attorney General is today. Jim Cantor, who is currently Deputy Attorney General, will step in to lead the Department of Law until the Governor appoints a new Attorney General.

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