Governor Tom Corbetts chief of staff is leaving his post.
 
Governor Corbett said Thursday that his long-time friend will leave his post to fill a vacant seat on the Allegheny Court of Common Pleas.
 
Corbett is nominating Bill Ward to fill the vacancy – saying it allows Ward the opportunity to return to his family near Pittsburgh. Ward has an extensive legal background and told reporters he’s always had aspirations of becoming a judge.
 
A Corbett spokesperson says Ward’s move has nothing to do with recent criticism by top Republican Party leaders who are calling for changes on the staff. Ward’s nomination will require conformation by the state Senate.
 
Ward will be replaced by Stephen Aichele, Corbett’s former top legal advisor. Aichele is also the husband of Corbett’s secretary of state.