Former state Rep. Don Cox, who stepped down two years ago, is headed back to Olympia.

County commissioners from the 9th Legislative District today chose Cox to replace Rep. Steve Hailey, who died Dec. 28th after a year-long battle with colon cancer.

Cox, 69, was almost immediately sworn in by Whitman County Superior Court Judge David Frazier. He officially became a member of the legislature about 90 minutes ago.

A Whitworth and WSU grad, Cox served in the Legislature from 1999 through 2006. His 35 year career in education --  Colfax school superintendent, teacher, counselor, school administrator, associate professor at WSU -- quickly made him a GOP point person on K-12 education and higher education in the House. Likely committee appointments for him this session: the House education committee, education appropriations, and transportation.

 "I know he will remain a tireless advocate for education, agriculture and fiscally sound government," state GOP chairman Luke Esser said.

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