McDonnell to replace Newman as head of Virginia National Guard

A spokesman for Gov. Bob McDonnell (R) is confirming that he will Friday morning appoint Brig. Gen. Wayne A. Wright as acting head of the Virginia National Guard, replacing Adjutant Gen. Robert B. Newman Jr., who had held the Guard's top job since 2006.

The change was first reported by the Virginian-Pilot. In an announcement expected shortly, McDonnell spokesman Tucker Martin indicated McDonnell will praise Newman as a dedicated public servant and not offer a reason for the switch. But Newman's reappointment has been in question since the Pilot reported last month that he had served on the board of a company run by a subordinate.

Newman said the arrangement had been vetted by staff to Gov. Tim Kaine (D), who had named him to the post.

Wright has been serving as the chief of staff of the Virginia Air National Guard. He first entered the Air Force in 1981.