Christie appoints new terrorism director

Gov. Chris Christie has appointed a new director to New Jersey's Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness.

On Tuesday, Christopher Rodriguez will replace Edward Dickson, director since February 2012. Rodriguez served as a senior analyst for the Central Intelligence Agency's Counterterrorism Center.

"Given Chris' stellar qualifications and his commitment to public service, I have no doubt that the Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness will continue to grow under Chris' leadership," said Christie in an emailed press release on Tuesday. "At the same time, I want to thank Edward Dickson for his commitment to service and leadership for New Jersey as he led OHSP through incredibly trying circumstances for our state."

Rodriguez previously served as a policy advisor on Christie's staff from 2011 to 2012, and was recognized with several awards from the CIA for his leadership abilities during his tenure.

His role will begin on July 28.