Tuesday, February 8, 2011

Pittsburgh Lawyer Tabbed for Attorney General

Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett has nominated a longtime federal prosecutor from Pittsburgh to serve out the remaining 23 months of his term as Attorney General. Linda Kelly, 61, will succeed Corbett as the state's top law enforcement officer if she is confirmed by at least a two-thirds vote of the Pennsylvania Senate. Since Corbett resigned as Attorney General Jan. 18, his former top deputy Bill Ryan has run the office.

Kelly has been a prosecutor for more than 30 years starting as an assistant District Attorney for Allegheny County and then serving in the U.S. Attorney's office in Pittsburgh since 1980.

“I know from my personal experience that throughout her career she has consistently demonstrated good judgment, common sense and has the experience to successfully lead the Attorney General’s office,” Corbett said.

Kelly says she's excited about a new and challenging endeavor.

“I am honored and humbled by Gov. Corbett’s confidence in me and I look forward to working with the men and women of the Attorney General’s office.

U.S. Attorney for Western Pennsylvania David Hickton called Kelly and exceptional person and outstanding lawyer.

"Linda is extremely bright; she possesses outstanding judgment; and she would be an excellent Attorney General for the citizens of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania."

Following the tradition of other nominees for attorney general, Kelly has promised not to run when the post comes up for election in 2012.

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