McEdery To Replace Kelly As East Deschire Lt. Governor

State senator will become new lieutenant governor effective December 4th

DEROSA, EDS--East Deschire Governor Lynn DeMont (NAT) has selected State Senator Laurel McEdery (N-Noha) to be his next lieutenant governor, replacing current lieutentant governor Tatem Kelly, who is leaving to take a job in the private sector.

Kelly, who is known for her outspoken behavior and sarcastic style, announced back in June she would step down from the state's number two position. Officially, Kelly is leaving to take a job at an investment firm in Armana. However, speculation within the Derosa political circle is that Kelly was asked to resign following an outburst at a Nationalist party meeting in the small municipality of Belletown in the state's southwest back in May. During that outburst, Kelly engaged in a shouting match with attendees, calling them "backward hicks" and "losers."

Kelly did not apologize for the incident until three days later, when, with Governor Lynn DeMont by her side, she made a public apology at the Governor's Mansion in Derosa. At that press conference, DeMont rebuked Kelly's behavior, calling her conduct "hurtful" and "a huge disappointment."

Later, in June, Kelly announced she would be leaving her position as lieutenant governor to start a new career. However, she agreed to stay on the job for six months until a replacement could be named and to ensure a smooth transition for her successor.

Now, just nine days before Kelly's last day in office, Governor DeMont has appointed McEdery to be his deputy. McEdery, who has served three terms in the state Senate, gladfully accepted the governor's invitation.

"I am overjoyed that Governor DeMont has asked me to serve as his lieutenant. I believe there is no greater honor than serving the people of East Deschire," she said at a Wednesday afternoon press conference in Derosa.

DeMont also praised McEdery for her humility and dedication to the state.

"Laurel has a humble attitude and a huge heart--a combination that makes her a great choice for lieutenant governor," DeMont said.

Now that she has been nominated for the position, McEdery still has to be confirmed by the state Senate, where her colleagues are expected to overwhelmingly confirm her. State Senate Majority Leader Gerald Ivenroe (C-Waverly) confirmed the Senate will vote on McEdery's nomination Friday, November 27th.