Press Release: Governor Little Announces Staff Changes

The following press release was sent out by the Office of Idaho Governor Brad Little. Press releases do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of those at the Idaho Dispatch.

Boise, Idaho – Governor Brad Little announced changes among his staff today.

Claudia Simplot Nally retires today after 29 years in the Governor’s Office. Simplot Nally joined the Governor’s Office in 1995 and has worked in the administration of five consecutive Governors – Phil Batt, Dirk Kempthorne, Jim Risch, Butch Otter, and Brad Little – a feat that is likely unparalleled in all of Idaho history.

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“Generations of Idahoans know Claudia as the first person they see or hear in the Governor’s Office. For nearly three decades, Claudia has greeted visitors with a warm smile and answered constituent calls with friendliness. She is truly one of a kind, and she will be missed by so many,” Governor Little said.

Governor Little also announced the upcoming departure of his longest serving General Counsel, Brady Hall. Hall is returning to his roots in the private sector, where he has extensive experience as a litigation and trial attorney.

“Brady Hall is among Idaho’s most intelligent and ethical lawyers, and I was fortunate he chose to dedicate his talent to my office for so many years. His integrity and passion for the rule of law helped us achieve great things for the people of Idaho. He will be deeply missed in my office, and I wish him well as he returns to the private sector,” Governor Little said.

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“I am very grateful to Governor Little and his staff for the opportunity to serve the administration and the people of Idaho in such a unique legal capacity. It has been an honor and truly rewarding experience to support committed public servants in their efforts to improve the role government plays in the lives of Idahoans. As a native Idahoan with deep roots in this state, I look forward to future opportunities to support Governor Little and the people of our state,” Hall said.

Andy Snook, Senior Deputy Counsel in the Office of the Governor, will serve as interim General Counsel during the transition. Snook, a fifth generation Idahoan, has served in public service for nearly two decades providing legal advice to executive agencies. He earned his law degree from Syracuse University College of Law and his bachelor’s degree from Idaho State University.

“Andy Snook is a talented lawyer who has done excellent work for my office since joining our team last summer. I am confident he will serve Idahoans well in his new role as interim General Counsel for my office and a member of my leadership team,” Governor Little said.

Jared Larsen is leaving the Governor’s Office to join the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (DHW) as the Legislative and Regulatory Affairs Chief, part of DHW Director Alex Adams’ new leadership team. Larsen has served for five and a half years in the Governor’s Office as Counsel and Policy Advisor on criminal justice, public safety, military affairs, drug policy, public defense, behavioral health, and administrative procedure.

“Jared Larsen’s deep understanding of Idaho’s crime and justice systems helped us advance policy changes that improve government efficiency and better protect Idahoans’ safety. Jared works effectively with our legislative partners and was instrumental in the creation of the Office of Administrative Hearings and new statewide Office of State Public Defender. Jared has also been key to the success of the three-branch Behavioral Health Council, helping to save lives by improving the state’s behavioral health systems. I am grateful Jared will continue to offer his dedication, knowledge, and experience within my administration in his new position at Health and Welfare,” Governor Little said.

McKenzie Johnson will rejoin the Governor’s team as a policy advisor. In 2023, Johnson left the Governor’s Office after four years of service to join the Office of Congressman Mike Simpson. As Congressman Simpson’s campaign manager, she also helped him win his primary election in May. Johnson is an Idaho native who grew up in Bonners Ferry. Johnson attended the University of Idaho, where she served as student body president and graduated with bachelor’s degrees in economics and political science.

“McKenzie Johnson is a rising star in the area of public policy, and I am excited to have her rejoin my team. Her energy, ability to solve problems, and dedication to public service will help us advance our priorities to better serve Idahoans,” Governor Little said.

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