Rep. Paul Levota Elected House Dem Leader

Rep. Paul LeVota (D-Independence) was unanimously elected House Minority Leader by his Democratic caucus on Saturday.

LeVota will take the reigns from Rep. Jeff Harris after the General Assembly's veto session in September. LeVota has served as Harris' number two since November 2004.

“I am honored at being selected to lead House Democrats during what will be an important legislative session next year,” LeVota said. “I look forward to helping craft an innovative legislative agenda and leading Democratic efforts to reclaim the House majority in 2008.”

House Democrats also elected state Rep. J.C. Kuessner of Eminence to replace LeVota as assistant minority leader.

Current Minority Leader Rep. Jeff Harris is stepping down to pursue a bid for Attorney General.