Pittenger: Name Rucho to open seat

ryanteaguebeckwith — Tue, 27 May 2008 14:31:58 -0400

Republicans are expected to name former Sen. Bob Rucho to replace Sen. Robert Pittenger.

The Charlotte Republican, who announced he was resigning today to focus on his run for lieutenant governor, said the availability of a respected, veteran legislator to take his place made it possible for him to step down, Mark Johnson reports.

"Senator Rucho could be here and give full attention to my constituents and do a great job," Pittenger said just hours after sending his resignation letter to Gov. Mike Easley. "Campaigning is a statewide challenge. It
requires a certain amount of attention and effort."

Rucho, who previously served eight years in the Senate, said he was not expecting Pittenger to resign but was excited by the opportunity to tackle a couple top priorities, anti-gang legislation and the completion of Charlotte-area highway projects.

"The good news is I can start earlier," Rucho said.

Easley's office will inform the state Republican Party, since the Senate seat is held by a Republican. State party officials will ask the Mecklenburg County party to name a successor, which typically is handled by the county executive committee.

Pittenger and Rucho both said they didn't want to speak for county GOP leaders, but expected the party would name Rucho, who won the Republican primary for Pittenger's seat on May 6.

"It's pretty logical," Pittenger said.

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Pittenger: Name Rucho to open seat