Phoenix — This time the governor is choosing the incumbent.
The state will appoint Jenny Kunico, Acting Director of Arizona Health Services, to a permanent position.
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs formally announced the move on Friday.
“Jenny is a true public servant and an asset to the nation,” Hobbes said in a tweet Friday. “Since 2014, Jenny has been with the Arizona Department of Health and has demonstrated leadership through good times and bad.”
ADHS looks forward to a new chapter under Jenny’s leadership and her commitment to the health of all people in Arizona. https://t.co/WP1BXGLO8f
— Arizona Department of Health (@AZDHS) August 4, 2023
Mr. Kuniko has been with the State Department of Health Services since 2014, serving as Deputy Director of Public Health Emergency Response, Acting Chief Human Resources Officer, and Chief Professional Development and Community Engagement Officer.
Earlier this year, Governor Hobbes named Dr. Teresa Cullen to the post. But after a controversial Senate Director Nominating Committee hearing, the governor chose not to proceed with Cullen’s nomination.
Republicans on the committee, as previously reported, criticized Karen for her handling of the COVID-19 pandemic as Pima County Health Commissioner, but were unimpressed by her response.
