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Alvarado leaving State Senate to become Tennessee health commissioner

LRC Public Information

Republican State Senator Ralph Alvarado is leaving his seat in the chamber to become the commissioner for the Tennessee Department of Health, effective January 16.

The Winchester native rose to prominence after becoming the first Hispanic person to be elected to the general assembly in 2014.

That notoriety grew after Alvarado ended up on the ballot in 2019 as lieutenant governor alongside former Governor Matt Bevin in his failed re-election bid.

Alvarado said in a statement, "It's an honor to join governor lee's team to advance health and prosperity for every Tennessean. I appreciate this opportunity and look forward to serving individuals and families across the volunteer state."

Alvarado has nearly 30 years of experience as an attending physician and has served in the Kentucky Senate since 2015.