Lucien Smith is taking over as the new chairman of the Mississippi Republican party after Joe Nosef’s recent departure.

Smith was elected as the new Chairman of the Mississippi Republican party today by the  party’s State Executive Committee. He was nominated by Governor Phil Bryant after previously serving as his Chief of Staff. The move was announced in a press release on the Mississippi GOP’s website.

“I’m pleased the Republican State Executive Committee accepted my nomination and has chosen Lucien as State Chairman,” said Governor Bryant. “He has a wealth of experience to draw from during his time on staff for multiple Republican governors and also in the private sector practicing law. He has the trust of his peers around the state, and I look forward to working with him soon to further the values of the Republican Party.”

Smith ran unopposed after Joe Nosef unexpectedly stepped down last week.

“I’m honored by the committee’s vote today and humbled by the Governor’s request that I serve,” said Chairman Smith. “Mississippi Republicans have never been in a stronger position, and I look forward to continuing the work to elect even more of those who share our conservative values.”