Mayor Kenney Announces Appointment of Christina M. Hernandez as Director of Legislative Affairs

PHILADELPHIA – Mayor Kenney today accepted the resignation of his Director of Legislative Affairs, Robert Murken, and announced that Christina M. Hernandez, currently the Assistant Director of Legislative Affairs, will succeed Murken as Director of this office.

“I am grateful to Bob for his service to my Administration and to the residents of Philadelphia. His work was instrumental in some of the major legislative successes of our first two years, especially the passage of the Philadelphia Beverage Tax,” said Mayor Kenney.  “From Day One, Christina Hernandez has impressed the entire team with her legal acumen, ability to work with key stakeholders including City Council members and staff, and her dedication to the City of Philadelphia. As we work toward progress on several important issues, including local governance and fair funding for the School District, Christina will provide an articulate and perceptive voice in shaping legislation and policy.”

As Director, Hernandez will manage the Administration’s legislative priorities and work to see their approval by City Council.  She will also lead the evaluation and discussion of legislation among Administrative Departments, City Council staff and other stakeholders.

“After two years working alongside some of the most smart, talented, and progressive people I’ve ever met, I’m thrilled to take on this new challenge and continue the great work we’ve started,” said Hernandez.

Hernandez joined the Mayor’s Office in February of 2016 after nearly five years as an Assistant District Attorney for the City of Philadelphia. In that role, she prosecuted robberies, aggravated assaults and kidnappings in South Philadelphia. She also served in the Government Fraud Unit and served as the Drug and DUI Treatment Court representative.

Hernandez holds a J.D. from the Temple University Beasley School of Law which she earned in 2011. She has been a member in good standing of the Pennsylvania Bar since October of 2011.

On January 26, 2018, Hernandez was awarded with the Gloria Casarez award for her deep commitment to public service, and exemplary display of leadership skills learned through the Leading for Change Fellowship Program.

Robert Murken’s resignation is effective March 9th.