Virginia Johnson, a North Carolina native, will serve as the governor's chief advocate in Washington, D.C.

 

"Virginia's background in legislative and public affairs, strategic planning and military affairs will greatly enhance our administration's federal relations," said Gov. McCrory in the announcement of Johnson's hiring. "We look forward to the work she will do working on a regional and national level to ensure North Carolina maintains its prominent role as a leader among the states."

 

Johnson served as counsel to the House Armed Services Committee, the House Ethics Committee and chief of staff to Rep. Dan Benishek of Michigan. 

 

Johnson also worked for Secretary Robert Gates as deputy assistant secretary of defense where she was  primary liaison between his office and the House of Representatives. She later represented the defense intelligence community before both the House and the Senate for an additional three years. 

 

Prior to her appointment to the Department of Defense, Johnson was executive director of the American Red Cross National Headquarters during its historic response to Hurricane Katrina.