Reapportionment Committee accepts Kevin Johnson's resignation and appoints John McKinney as ninth member

The Reapportionment Committee voted to accept the resignation of Kevin Johnson and then unanimously appointed former state Sen. John McKinney as the commission's ninth member.

Committee members placed Kevin Johnson's resignation on the agenda and a motion to accept it was brought forward and approved without opposition; the chair noted the resignation was accepted "with regret." The meeting then moved to a nomination from Sen. Kelly to fill the vacancy.

Sen. Kelly formally nominated John McKinney to the commission. Several members expressed support during the brief discussion, saying McKinney is fair, respectful of the institution and likely to work toward a bipartisan agreement on the commission's three plans and maps. A roll-call affirmation followed; members voting in favor included Sen. Looney, Rep. Rojas, Sen. Duff, Sen. Kelly, Rep. Canalora and Rep. Ritter, producing a 7-0 confirmation.

After the votes, a member moved to adjourn, the motion was seconded, and the body closed the meeting. Members exchanged travel well-wishes and departed.

The actions recorded at the meeting were: acceptance of Kevin Johnson's resignation and the appointment of John McKinney as the ninth member of the Reapportionment Committee. No further agenda items were taken up before adjournment.