Spencer Chambers, former legislative aide to Texas Sen. John Cornyn, and the port's spokeswoman could not be reached for comment by deadline. In his new role, Chambers' also will pursue legislation for the port authority can continue to operate efficiently and competitively, according to a press release about the hiring.

The port's government relations department is one of three in the authority's public affairs division. The other two departments are communications and public relations. All three departments report to the public affairs division director.

"Spencer has an impressive track record that aligns nicely with PHA's government relations and which will allow him to hit the ground running as he manages the aggressive local, state and federal agendas," Argentina M. James, public affairs division director. "The port authority's ability to have productive relationships with its government officials is essential to PHA's continued success." She adds that his track record aligns nicely with PHA's government relations and will allow him to hit the ground running to aggressively manage local, state and federal agendas.

As Cornyn's aide, Chambers was responsible for monitoring appropriations and policies for energy, natural resources and Homeland Security. He also was at Cornyn's side during his tenure as state attorney general. He also was a long-time aide for state Rep. Tony Goolsby.