Cowan will undoubtedly have to adapt to his new role. Serving as chief of staff is “a bit more political,” than serving as the governor’s lawyer, said Dan Winslow, Romney’s former legal counsel. “You’re essentially herding the cats of the Cabinet.”
But no one expects Cowan to pound tables and yell. “He is just a class act,” Winslow said.
The governor said he is not worried that Cowan lacks a deep political resume. “He’s going to be great,” said Patrick. “Of course, I’m a more experienced governor, too, so there are different needs that I have at this moment than I had four years ago.”
Cowan said he appreciates the opportunity, comparing his rise to that of the governor.
“I came from an experience where, but for the grace of others, we wouldn’t have had some of these opportunities,” Cowan said. “So you remember that, and you want to have that touch with folks who want to touch the administration.”
Michael Levenson can be reached at mlevenson@globe.com.
