Governor-elect Lincoln D. Chafee said Friday that Robert A. Walsh Jr., the executive director of the National Education Association of Rhode Island, will remain on his transition team despite calls for Walsh's removal in the wake a NEARI official's being arrested and charged with using a computer to impersonate a state representative.

Chafee said in a statement that Walsh is a "valued member" of his transition team and "represents an important perspective on critical issues the state of Rhode Island is currently confronting."

"My transition team includes a wide range of members with experience in labor, business, education, social services and government. I value each individual's contribution," he said.

John Leidecker, an assistant executive director with NEARI, was arrested Tuesday and accused of using a computer to impersonate Rep. Douglas Gablinske, D-Bristol. Leidecker pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor charge of imparting false information through an electronic mail account and was released on personal recognizance.

The police say Leidecker impersonated Gablinske in e-mails sent before the Sept. 14 primary, discussing issues that were important to voters in Gablinske's district but misstating his positions. Gablinske, who lost in the primary and then ran an unsuccessful write-in campaign, is known for taking a hard line on issues affecting public employee unions.

Walsh is on leave while he recovers from surgery but Chafee said he looks forward to "continuing to work with Mr. Walsh when he returns."