**Governor Ivey Removes Veterans Affairs Commissioner Amid Controversy**

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has taken decisive action to remove W. Kent Davis from his position as Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs. This move comes after the State Board of Veterans Affairs voted 3-2 against her initial request for Davis’s dismissal.

Governor Ivey exercised what she described as the "supreme executive power of this state" in a letter directly addressing Davis, which was promptly hand-delivered to his attorney. Davis, who had previously agreed to step down at the end of 2024, faces allegations from the governor of non-cooperation and mishandling of an American Rescue Plan grant program—claims his supporters vehemently deny.

Davis’s attorney, John Saxon, has questioned the legality of the governor's decision and suggested the possibility of a retaliatory motive linked to an earlier ethics complaint Davis filed against the state mental health commissioner. Though this complaint was later dismissed, it has fueled an ongoing dispute culminating in the recent actions.

Ivey defended her decision by citing the Alabama Constitution, which she interprets as granting her the authority to enforce law and ensure adequate action within the executive branch when necessary. She expressed regret that the situation reached a point where forceful intervention was needed but underscored what she sees as a failure of leadership and lack of cooperation at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Attorney Saxon indicated that they are considering further legal action under the anti-retaliation provision of the state ethics act. Highlighting the tension, he noted his eagerness to question the governor under oath if it comes to that.

The conflict between Davis and Ivey dates back to earlier this year and appeared to have been resolved with an agreement for Davis to resign at the end of next year. However, the governor called a special board meeting alleging that Davis was attempting to manipulate board members, leading to the recent vote and subsequent dismissal.

Throughout this turmoil, Davis expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to address the board and clear the air regarding the accusations, emphasizing the personal toll the situation has taken on him.