Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder announced Tuesday that he has hired Office of Administration Deputy Commissioner Richard M. AuBuchon to serve as his new “chief of staff and general counsel.”

In the political world, AuBuchon is perhaps best known for his role in the controversy surrounding the firing of Scott Eckersley, former staff lawyer to Gov. Matt Blunt. Eckersley contends that he was fired for warning Blunt’s staff that they were mishandling office e-mails that needed to be preserved.

It was AuBuchon who called reporters, including yours truly, after boxes of Eckersley’s old e-mails had been sent to the Post-Dispatch and other media outlets in an attempt to discredit Eckersley’s allegations.  Eckersley has filed suit against AuBuchon, Blunt and others, alleging defamation of character and violation of the state’s whistleblower statute.

From Kinder’s release:

“Rich’s background and experience in public policy, law and state government will be tremendous assets in helping my office better serve Missourians,” Lt. Governor Kinder said. “Rich has been a trusted advisor since he began working for my good friend, the late Commissioner of Administration Mike Keathley.  I am extremely pleased that Rich has decided to join my staff and I look forward to having him lead the day-to-day activities of my office.”

AuBuchon, 32 of Jefferson City, presently serves as the Deputy Commissioner and Chief Counsel for the State of Missouri Office of Administration under current Commissioner Larry Shepker.  AuBuchon oversees management of the Office of Administration, as well as handling all legal matters for the office.

In his new role, AuBuchon will serve as chief advisor to Lt.Governor Kinder on senior and veteran issues and will serve as a liaison with various boards and commissions, including the Missouri Tourism Commission.  AuBuchon will supervise the day-to-day activities of Lt. Governor Kinder’s office and all relative legal matters.

“I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to serve the people of Missouri on behalf of Lt. Governor Kinder on issues important to our seniors, veterans and businesses,” AuBuchon said.  “Having previously worked with Lt. Governor Kinder on these issues, I am keenly aware of his hard-work and commitment on behalf of all Missourians and I look forward to this new opportunity…”