Palin named Wayne Anthony Ross to the post on Thursday
His appointment must be confirmed by the Legislature.
Ross, a longtime figure in Alaska politics, twice sought the Republican nomination for governor. He is a former NRA vice president and current director.
Ross replaces Talis Colberg, who resigned Feb. 10 amid what Palin called a "harsh political climate."
Colberg was a central figure in "Troopergate," the Alaska Legislature's investigation into whether Palin or aides had pressured her public safety commissioner to fire a state trooper involved in a contentious divorce and custody battle with Palin's sister.
Colberg filed a lawsuit on behalf of seven state workers challenging legislative subpoenas. A judge rejected the lawsuit and the employees later testified.
Ross is a partner in a family practice law firm with offices on Fireweed Lane. He served in various capacities in Palin's gubernatorial campaign.
Important warning about e-mails purporting to be from the adn.com staff.