From Senator George Runner . . .
Local Republicans looking at lead roles in state Legislature
This story appeared in the Antelope Valley Press
Tuesday, December 2, 2008.
By JAMES RUFUS KOREN
Valley Press Staff Writer
SACRAMENTO — Two area Republicans will hold leadership roles in the state Legislature during the next term, with George Runner and Cameron Smyth locking down the Republican caucus chairmen positions in the state Senate and Assembly.
Runner, R-Lancaster, was elected last month to his second four-year Senate term and was re-elected Monday as caucus chairman.
He served as caucus chairman during his first term as well.
Smyth, R-Santa Clarita, just elected to his second term in the Assembly, was appointed the Assembly’s Republican caucus chair by minority leader Mike Villines, R-Fresno.
“I am honored to have been chosen by Republican leader Villines to serve as the new Republican caucus chairman and will work very hard to uphold the confidence that has been shown in me,” Smyth said in a statement Monday. “I stand ready to lead alongside my Assembly Republican colleagues as we fight to stop costly tax increases, repair our broken budget system, put jobs first and build a stronger California.”
Smyth replaces Bob Huff, who was elected to the State Senate in November.
Villines said he looks forward “to working closely with Cameron as we lead a united Republican party in protecting Californians from higher taxes and reckless spending.”
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger on Monday declared a fiscal emergency, putting Runner, Smyth and other legislators to work immediately.
Lawmakers elected and re-elected in the November election were sworn into office Monday.
jkoren@avpress.com
Tags: George Runner