Sen. Mark Schoesler, leader of the state’s Republican senators, said today he is looking forward to serving with John Smith of Colville in the state Senate. Smith, who will succeed retired Sen. Bob Morton, was appointed today by commissioners in the five counties that are partially or completely within the 7th Legislative District.

“It is an honor and a pleasure to welcome John to the Senate,” said Schoesler, R-Ritzville. “I have every confidence he will represent northeast Washington as effectively and faithfully as Senator Morton; I also appreciate that he is willing to step up and make the commitments that go with being a citizen legislator, especially so far from the Capitol. John is joining the Senate at an important time in its history, as we strive for a new level of bipartisan cooperation. I look forward to working with him.”

Morton officially stepped down Monday after 22 years of legislative service. Smith will be sworn in Wednesday, Jan. 9.

The 2013 legislative session begins Jan. 14 in Olympia.