Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell called Jon Kyl “an excellent choice” to fill the Arizona Senate seat vacated after the death of Sen. John McCain.
Kyl held the state’s other Senate seat from 1995 until his retirement in 2013, McConnell noted, and was also a House lawmaker for many years.
“His constituents will be well-served by Jon’s significant congressional experience and leadership,” he said on the Senate floor.
Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey announced Tuesday he’ll appoint Kyl to fill McCain’s remaining term, although Kyl suggested he might only keep the job until the end of the year.
Kyl’s arrival will restore the Senate to full attendance and give the GOP a two-vote majority, up from the one seat advantage Republicans have had since McCain left the Senate to treat his brain cancer.
“We’ve had a productive summer passing legislation and confirming more judges and well-qualified nominees. We have a busy fall ahead of us, and I look forward to working with Jon as we continue making progress for the American people,” McConnell added.
