By The Associated Press
OLYMPIA — Gov.-elect Jay Inslee is standing by State Patrol Chief John Batiste despite objections from the troopers union.
Inslee said Friday he was re-appointing Batiste, saying he has demonstrated the kind of results-oriented leadership that every agency needs.
The Washington State Patrol Troopers Association had said that Batiste was out of touch and had recommended that Lakewood Police Chief Bret replace him.
Batiste was first appointed by Gov. Chris Gregoire in 2005.
He oversees some 2,400 employees. The union represents about 1,000.
Inslee also announced Friday that he was keeping Corrections Secretary Bernard Warner in his cabinet. He said Warner has made improvements to prison safety and the efficient use of resources.
