Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders appoints campaign manager and lobbyist Chris Caldwell as new Arkansas Game and Fish Commissioner

LITTLE ROCK, Arkansas – Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders on Monday appointed a longtime adviser as the newest member of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

Chris Caldwell is joining the commission for a seven-year term. Sanders said Caldwell will replace outgoing AGFC Chairman Stan Jones, while John David “JD” Neeley will assume the role of commission chairman.

According to a spokesman for the governor, Caldwell is from Saline County, where he runs a lobbying firm. He previously managed the Sarah for Governor campaign and served as special adviser to the governor-elect’s transition team.

During the Trump administration, Caldwell served as the federal co-chair of the Delta Regional Authority. He also previously worked as a staff member for Republican Senator John Boozman of Arkansas.

Caldwell said he is excited to take on this new role.

“Hunting and fishing have always been a big part of my life and I am proud to join the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and help provide every child and family in Arkansas with the same opportunities I have enjoyed,” Caldwell said. “I am grateful the Governor chose me for this role and look forward to working with her and each commissioner to make Arkansas the best state in the nation to hunt, fish, live and raise a family.”

Sanders expressed her confidence in Caldwell, whom she said is a “great friend and trusted advisor.”