ATLANTA – Governor Sonny Perdue has named State Sen. Preston Smith (R-Rome) as one of his Administration Floor Leaders in the Senate.  This prestigious appointment means that Sen. Smith, a freshman Senator, will carry Gov. Perdue’s legislation as it works its way through the legislative process.  This appointment marks the first time in the State’s history that a first-term Senator has been named an Administration Floor Leader.

“Sen. Smith has made a considerable impression upon me during his first year as a State Senator,” Gov. Perdue said following the appointment.  “His knowledge of Georgia law is significant and his leadership ability is without question.  I am looking forward to working with Sen. Smith next year as we make changes in the laws that affect all Georgians.”

“I am extremely honored by this appointment,” Sen. Smith said following the Governor’s announcement.  “I appreciate the confidence that the Governor and my Senate colleagues have expressed in my abilities as a State Senator.  Being part of Governor Perdue’s ‘inner circle’ will be beneficial to my constituents, and I am honor-bound to serve the people of Georgia to the best of my ability.

“My relationship with Governor Perdue is one of mutual admiration,” Sen. Smith added.  “Working with him as a floor leader will be an awesome responsibility, but one I look forward to with great anticipation.”  At age 30, Sen. Smith is the youngest member of the Georgia Senate.

Senate President Pro Tempore Eric Johnson (R-Savannah) hailed the Governor’s decision, calling Smith one of the Senate’s “brightest new stars.” 

“I feel certain that Georgia is going to see a lot more of Sen. Smith over the next few years and I believe he is going to serve Georgia well in what should prove to be a long and successful career as a public servant.”

The position as administration floor leader previously was held by Sen. Bill Stephens (R-Canton) who recently was elected Senate Majority Leader. 

“Preston Smith has an extremely bright future ahead of him,” Sen. Stephens said.  “I am certain he will do a tremendous job as Administration Floor Leader.  Having such close access to the Governor will be a great advantage to the people of Northwest Georgia.”

Sen. Smith’s new role also will move his from his current office in the Legislative Office Building to the Floor Leaders’ office within the State Capitol.  His new address is 109 State Capitol, Atlanta, Georgia 30334 and his new phone number will be 404.651.7738.

Sen. Smith will join his colleagues Sen. Dan Lee (R-LaGrange) and Sen. David Shafer (R-Duluth) as Gov. Perdue’s Floor Leaders in the Senate.