From the office of Sen. Phil Berger, Republican nominee for president pro tem:
Berger Names Apodaca as Rules Chairman-Elect
Raleigh, N.C. ? Senate Republican Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) has named Sen. Tom Apodaca (R-Henderson) as the Chairman-elect of the Committee on Rules and Operations of the Senate.
Senator Apodaca will lead efforts to revise and reform the Senate Rules ahead of the 2011-2012 session of the North Carolina General Assembly. When the Legislature convenes and organizes in January, Senator Berger plans to appoint Senator Apodaca Chairman of the Committee on Rules and Operations of the Senate.
The Rules Committee is traditionally one of the most powerful in the Senate since it determines the flow of legislation and governance of the chamber’s operations. Senator Apodaca?s appointment ensures that Western North Carolina has a powerful and influential voice in the new Republican Senate leadership.
Senator Berger said, ?Senator Apodaca is one of the most fair-minded, thoughtful, and committed public servants I?ve known during my time in the legislature. Senator Apodaca served as one of my most trusted advisors for the last six years; he brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the Rules Committee.?
Senator Apodaca will begin his fifth term in the Senate in January representing Buncombe, Henderson, and Polk counties in District 48. He said, ?Our state is facing serious problems with a significant budget crisis and a crucial need for more jobs. It is critical that the Senate work effectively and efficiently and I am ready to do my part to ensure that happens.?
