Today Kaine announced his appointment of Patrick Gottschalk to the cabinet post of Secretary of Commerce and Trade. Gottschalk, a lawyer who has built his career around international law, has been an influential and well-admired member of several critical Richmond area and statewide economic development organizations and commissions. The press release includes the following comment from the Governor-elect:
?Pat has demonstrated a real eagerness to take on the challenges of keeping Virginia?s business climate strong, and he shares my commitment to promoting economic development in all parts of the Commonwealth,? Kaine said. ?Pat?s international business experience will help Virginia compete in the global economy and, as a veteran, he will provide experienced leadership as we work to protect and grow our military and defense-related industries.?
Two cabinet level positions remain open: Transportation and Education. Kaine has previously indicated that he intends to fill these roles by the end of this week.