3 months ago
SACRAMENTO, CA - Gov. Schwarzenegger has named Sen. Abel Maldonado, R- Santa Maria, to be California's lieutenant governor.
Schwarzenegger made the announcement during a taping of The Jay Leno Show Monday evening.
Democrat John Garamendi vacated the state's second highest office when he was elected to Congress earlier this month.
Maldonado, 42, sided with the governor and Democrats during contentious tax increase legislation earlier this year as lawmakers struggled with a multi-billion-dollar budget deficit.
The governor's office issued the following prepared statement:
"Senator Maldonado has proven he has the strength and courage it takes to reach across the partisan divide and put the interests of Californians first and he is absolutely the most qualified person to take on the role of Lieutenant Governor," said Governor Schwarzenegger. "Senator Maldonado shares my commitment to creating a transparent, accountable government that works for the people. He will be a true partner in solving the critical issues facing our state and building a stronger future for California."Legislators have 90 days to vote on Maldonado's appointment.
News10/KXTV
