Oregon Public Broadcasting

Chris Edwards has been chosen to finish Vicki Walker's term in the Oregon Senate.

Lane County Commissioners Wednesday voted unanimously to appoint State Representative Edwards to the District 7 Senate seat. KLCC's Rachael McDonald reports.

All the commissioners praised Edwards' experience in the State House, combined with his business background and communications skills.

Commissioner Faye Stewart said the tipping point for him was the letters and emails he received from voters.

Senator-designate Edwards says he'll be representing twice as many people now. He plans to go door to door to meet his constituents. He says jobs are a big priority. 

Chris Edwards: "Bills like the energy efficiency and sustainable technology act that I worked to champion this last legislative session that really marry energy efficiency, utility bill savings; cost savings for homeowners and creating good construction jobs. Those are the types of win-wins that I will continue to work for."

Vicki Walker left her Senate seat to take a job as head of the State Parole Board.

Edwards has told commissioners he plans to run for the seat after the term expires in January 2011.