FIRST GOAL: ELECT SPEAKER

The Sun Herald, 1/8/8

The state Legislature convenes for the 2008 session today and the big story from the first day is likely to be the speaker of the House election.

Some Republicans have endorsed conservative Jeff Smith, D-Columbus, in his bid to oust House Speaker Billy McCoy, D-Rienzi, from his post. The vote is likely to come after the gavel sounds at noon.

Along with the big election in the House, senators will also pick their leadership today. Sen. Billy Hewes, R-Gulfport, has been tapped to become the president pro tempore after gaining an endorsement from incoming Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant. It’s customary for the Senate, which elects a candidate for the job, to comply with the lieutenant governor’s choice.