Virginia Johnson to Lead Office of Federal Relations | Eastern NC Now

News Release:

    Raleigh, NC     Governor Pat McCrory announced today that Virginia Johnson, a former senior congressional counsel and seasoned attorney with more than 27 years of experience, will join his administration as the new director of federal relations.

    In her new role, Johnson will serve as the governor's chief advocate in Washington, DC. She will be supporting the missions and priorities of North Carolina by representing state government before the White House, Congress and federal agencies.

    "Virginia's background in legislative and public affairs, strategic planning and military affairs will greatly enhance our administration's federal relations," said Governor Pat McCrory. "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 is a native North Carolinian who brings more than 10 years of senior experience with Congress. She 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.


    Contact: Crystal Feldman
       govpress@nc.gov