Tennessee Attorney General Announces Key Communications Team Appointments

Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti today announced the appointments of two members to the Office's communications team.

Kaki Carrigan has been promoted to Chief Communications Officer and will continue to serve as Deputy Chief of Staff. In this expanded role, Carrigan will lead the Office's communications team and direct both internal and external communications strategies.

Carrigan joined the Attorney General's Office in 2022 as Assistant Director of Public Affairs, having previously served in Speaker Cameron Sexton's Office as the Director of Operations and Member
Relations. She was promoted to Deputy Chief of Staff in 2023 and has played a key role in advancing the Office's mission to be the best public law office in the country. She holds a BA in Political Science from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

"Kaki has been a key architect of our office's success, ensuring widespread recognition of our victories through her work in communications, external relations, and legislative affairs," said Attorney General Skrmetti. "Her work has been vital to how we clearly, accurately, and persuasively convey the excellent and principled representation we provide for Tennessee. She's exactly the right person to step in to this new role and lead our communications team with distinction."

Phil Buehler has been appointed Press Secretary. Buehler will serve as the primary spokesperson for the Office and manage day-to-day media relations.

Buehler brings more than two decades of experience in broadcast journalism and newsroom leadership to his new role. Most recently, he served as News Director and Content Manager at Sinclair Broadcast Group's WTVC in Chattanooga. Under his leadership, the station's news team was recognized as the Tennessee Association of Broadcasters' "Best News Team 2024." He holds an MBA from The Citadel Graduate School of Business and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Media Arts and Economics from the University of Arizona.

"Phil's extensive background in broadcast journalism and his track record of leading high-performing newsroom operations make him an ideal fit for our team," Attorney General Skrmetti added. "In addition to this exceptional experience, Phil brings a relentless commitment to excellence and integrity. His insights will be invaluable to help us effectively communicate the work of our office to the people of Tennessee."

For all press inquiries, please contact Phil Buehler at phil.buehler@ag.tn.gov.

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