Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste will keep his badge over the objections of troopers.

Gov.-elect Jay Inslee said today he will re-appoint Batiste today, citing the chief's extensive law enforcement experience and record of results at the helm of the 2,400 person agency.

“Chief Batiste has demonstrated the kind of results-oriented leadership that I believe every agency in the state needs,” Inslee said in prepared remarks. “He has had a distinguished career in law enforcement and I know he will continue to improve an already outstanding agency.”

Earlier this month, the labor union representing state troopers urged Inslee to replace Batiste.

Also today, Inslee said he will keep Corrections Secretary Bernard Warner in charge of the state's prions.

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