February 1, 2005

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today announced the appointment of David Wetmore as assistant to the Governor and director of the Governor's Washington, D.C. Office.

"I am confident David will use his strong background in federal-state relations and deep understanding of the federal issues impacting our state to advocate successfully for the people of California in Washington, D.C.," said Governor Schwarzenegger. "He shares my commitment to working with our Congressional delegation, the President and his Administration to secure appropriate funding for California while also focusing on the many other important issues confronting our state in our nation's capitol."

Since 1999, Wetmore has served as director of government relations for the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) in Washington, D.C. Prior to his position there, Wetmore was director of Governor Pete Wilson's Washington, D.C. office, where he served as chief federal policy advisor and advocated for changes in federal law to reflect California's legislative and regulatory priorities. Wetmore began his public service career as a legislative assistant to United States Senator Pete Wilson from 1986 to 1991, where he was chief representative and director of outreach to California state and local government officials and organizations. From 1991 to 1993, he served as senior legislative assistant for United States Senator John Seymour.

"I am honored Governor Schwarzenegger has asked me to serve California in our nation's Capitol," said Wetmore. "I look forward to working with him to pursue his federal priorities and represent the interests of the people of California."

Wetmore, 44, of Arlington, VA., earned a degree in international relations from the Institut d'Etudes Politiques d'Aix-en-Provence, France, and a Bachelor of Arts degree from California State University, San Diego in political science and French.  This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $123,000.  Wetmore is a Republican.

The Governor's Washington, D.C. Office represents California's interests in Washington, D.C. Wetmore will assume his role on February 21, 2005 and report directly to chief-of-staff Pat Clarey.

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