Randy Smith elected West Virginia Senate president; chamber adopts rules and appoints officers

Senator Randy Smith was elected president of the West Virginia Senate during the chamber’s organizing session, and sworn into office by Justice Tim Armstead of the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals. Senators also reappointed Lee Cassis as clerk, selected a sergeant at arms and doorkeeper, and adopted the Senate’s rules, joint rules with the House of Delegates, and several routine administrative resolutions by voice vote or acclamation.

The changes set leadership and operating procedures for the 80th West Virginia Legislature. Adopting the rules and selecting officers organizes how bills and committee work will proceed during the session and establishes the staff who will carry out legislative business.

Senator Randy Smith received a nomination from the floor and was confirmed by acclamation. Tim Armstead, a justice on the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals, administered the oath to Smith after the chamber voted to close nominations and elect by acclamation. In brief remarks after his oath, Senator Randy Smith thanked colleagues and family and said he would seek to treat legislators, staff and visitors fairly and to “represent the people” of West Virginia. He invoked his faith and described his priorities as keeping West Virginians working and building on recent gains.

The Senate…