AUGUSTA — Peter Rogers, a 1981 graduate of Edward Little High School, will soon become Gov. Paul LePage’s new communications director.

LePage announced Thursday that Rogers will head the governor’s communications staff.

Rogers, who begins his new job July 25, fills a staff position made vacant in April when former director Dan Demeritt resigned. Demeritt, who joined LePage’s gubernatorial campaign in the final months before the election, stepped down to deal with financial matters.

Demeritt’s resignation came amid a tumultuous beginning for LePage, whose controversial comments made national headlines and created friction with lawmakers in both parties.

Rogers acknowledged Thursday that his new post will “certainly be a challenge.”

“It’s one of those things where I really had no plans of going anywhere, but I got the request to submit a resume,” he said. “I thought a lot about it. But I thought, ‘Some change is needed and we’re going to see that change with Gov. LePage.'”

He added, “He’s the right guy at the right time. It’s going to be challenging, but it’s a challenge I really look forward to.”

Rogers most recently served under Maj. Gen. John Libby with the Maine Army National Guard. Rogers was the deputy commissioner of Veterans and Emergency Management for two years.

Prior to that, he ran the Lewiston and Biddeford state offices for U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine.

Rogers said he met with LePage earlier this week.

“I think it’s going to be a real good fit,” Rogers said.

He will become the media’s main conduit to the governor, who over recent months has been increasingly less accessible. Rogers said he hoped to change that.

“I think it is important,” he said. “I think (LePage) has a great message to get out. Unfortunately, in the past it’s been tough … there hasn’t been as much communication. It’s a culture change, too. Gov. Baldacci was very free with the media.”

Rogers is a 22-year U.S. Army combat arms officer, having served both on active duty and with the Maine National Guard. He served several posts at the Maine Military Academy. He was also lead spokesman for the Maine National Guard during the Gulf War and the war on terrorism.

Prior to his service with the Maine National Guard, Rogers was the media contact for Women’s Pro Ski, a professional ski racing organization.

“Peter brings a wealth of knowledge with him,” LePage said in a written statement. “He is committed to effectively and proactively communicating our focused messages on job creation, welfare, energy and education reforms to the people of Maine, and I look forward to working with him.”

Rogers holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Norwich University in Vermont. He resides in Yarmouth with his wife, Kristine, and five daughters.

smistler@sunjournal.com

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