Brownback’s spokeswoman leaving as he prepares to step aside

Gov. Sam Brownback’s chief spokeswoman is leaving ahead of his anticipated departure.

Melika Willoughby, who served in the job for less than a year, will leave at the end of the week. She is taking a position at Forge Leadership Network, an organization that identifies and mentors young conservatives.

Her departure is the latest signal that although Brownback remains governor, a transition is already under way.

Lt. Gov. Jeff Colyer will become governor once Brownback resigns, which is expected to occur after he is confirmed by the U.S. Senate as ambassador at large for international religious freedom. There has been little sign of opposition to his appointment.

Rachel Whitten, a spokeswoman at the Kansas Department of Revenue, is expected to serve as Brownback’s spokeswoman for the rest of his time in office. Colyer named Kara Fullmer his press secretary last week.

Willoughby, who had served in Brownback’s press office before her promotion to lead spokeswoman in November, at times elicited controversy because of emails she sent to the governor’s supporters. In one, she called Medicaid expansion "morally reprehensible;" in another, she referred to "ever-litigating" school districts.

But she also ramped up the governor’s use of social media, including Twitter in particular.

"I am deeply grateful for Melika's service to the state of Kansas," Brownback said in a statement.

"She has been a tireless warrior for conservative principles and an advocate for making Kansas the best state in America to raise a family and grow a business. I trust that she will accomplish great things in the years to come."

This story was originally published August 14, 2017 at 3:00 PM with the headline "Brownback’s spokeswoman leaving as he prepares to step aside."