As reported by the Wisconsin State Journal, Robert King, Kentucky Council of Postsecondary Education president, is no longer being considered for the University of Wisconsin System president, although it is not known whether he withdrew his candidacy or was informed he did not receive the position.

King’s candidacy sparked concerns over his background as a conservative politician and officer of the American Legislative Exchange Council.

In a statewide public forum Monday, King said his top priority was working with the Legislature if he were selected. In an interview with The Badger Herald, King said he felt his experience in New York’s Legislature would help him achieve increased communication between the state and UW.

Sue Patrick, Kentucky Council of Postsecondary Education spokesperson, said King was honored to be considered as a candidate for UW System president, but would be remaining in his current position.

“[King] is very happy in Kentucky. We are leading the nation in many areas and he’s very happy with the work and the relationships with the Legislature and the campus president,” Patrick said.

Raymond Cross, chancellor of UW Colleges and UW-Extension, and Peter Garland, executive vice chancellor and chief operating officer for the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, are the remaining two finalists.

The system’s 18-member search committee is expected to make a single recommendation to the Board of Regents, which will take up the appointment in its meeting Thursday.