South-Carolina
State lawmakers have picked who will be the new House Speaker
He replaces Jay Lucas, who introduced in April that he would each be stepping down as Home Speaker
COLUMBIA, S.C. — State Rep. Murrell Smith is the brand new speaker of the South Carolina Home of Representatives.
Members voted Thursday morning in favor of Smith, a Republican from Sumter County, to be the chief of the chamber. He’ll formally take over these duties at 5:01 p.m. on Might 12.
Smith received a standing ovation from the Home members after the announcement of the election was made.
He replaces Jay Lucas, who introduced in April that he would each be stepping down as Home Speaker and leaving the legislature on the finish of Might.
“The function of Home Speaker is a superb honor and an ideal duty that carries with it a distinguished historical past,” Lucas mentioned in a press release. “I’ve had the non-public privilege of working intently with Murrell over the previous 22 years, and I’ve discovered an ideal deal about his character and ability. I’ve seen the dedication he provides, not solely to our state and to this Physique, however to each member seated on this Chamber immediately. I do know Murrell is the proper particular person to guide the Home and information it on the most effective course for our beloved state.”
Jay Lucas to go away as South Carolina Speaker at finish of session
Smith’s election wasn’t a shock, as he’d gave the impression to be the decide since Lucas announce he can be leaving. “You have got an ideal speaker in Jay Lucas and an ideal speaker-in—ready, quickly to be speaker-elect in Murrell Smith,” mentioned Rep. Gary Simrill, the Home Majority Chief, again in April.
Smith has been within the Home since 2001 and has served on quite a few committees. Since 2018, he is been the chairman of the influential Methods and Means Committee, which is liable for drafting up the state finances. As a result of a Home Speaker cannot be on a committee, he resigned that put up earlier than taking the brand new job.
Smith additionally will face re-election in December when the newly elected Home class involves the Statehouse for an organizational session.
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