By Matt Cunningham

Staff Writer

A former West Chester Twp. resident with ties to Lebanon and Mason has been named to replace one of President Bush's top advisers.

Tuesday Bush named Barry Jackson, former Deputy Assistant to the President and Director of Strategic Initiatives, as the new Assistant to the President for Strategic Initiatives and External Affairs. Jackson replaces former White House advisor Karl Rove, who stepped down in August.

Though born in Washington, D.C., Jackson spent much of his life living in Ohio. His father, Cletis Jackson, is president of Hi-Tek Manufacturing in Mason, according to Liberty Twp. trustee David Kern. Cletis Jackson and his wife, Judy, are residents of Lebanon.

"Barry is a very personable, likeable individual," said Butler County GOP executive director Scott Owens. "He will serve President Bush and the citizens of the United States very, very well."

Jackson will oversee efforts to implement presidential strategies. His position will also manage several White House offices concerned with politics and public affairs: the office of Political Affairs, the office of Public Liaison, the office of Intergovernmental Affairs and the office of Strategic Initiatives.

Jackson joined the president's advisory staff in 2002. Prior to that, he spent 10 years working with Republican Congressman John Boehner of West Chester Twp., who is now the House Minority Leader. Jackson was Boehner's chief of staff and his deputy assistant during his first term in office.

"Barry has long been a loyal friend and dedicated public servant," said Boehner in a prepared statement, "and he has proven himself to be one of the most results-oriented professionals I've ever had the privilege of working beside.

Staff reporter Eric Schwartzberg contributed to this report.