Donna Lynne on Wednesday won confirmation as Colorado’s next lieutenant governor after a Republican-led Senate voted unanimously to approve Gov. John Hickenlooper’s pick.
A swearing-in ceremony for Lynne to assume the state’s No. 2 post is expected next week.
The former Kaiser Permanente executive won wide praise from lawmakers in a committee hearing where she explained her plan to measure outcomes against dollars going into state programs.
“I’m excited about this next adventure you’re taking on, and I’m excited to support you here today,” said Sen. Owen Hill, a Colorado Springs Republican.
Lynne deftly answered a question about expanding rural health care with technology and financial partnerships for those hospitals, amid concerns about excessive spending in the Republican chamber.
Hours after her unanimous approval in committee, the Senate approved her nomination 35-0 without debate. On Friday, the Democratic-led House passed Lynne’s nomination 54-11.
Hickenlooper selected Lynne in March after Lt. Gov. Joe Garcia announced his resignation to take a new job.
Before moving into the private sector, Lynne worked for 20 years in New York City government under Republican and Democratic mayors. She began her career working for Republican President Gerald Ford soon after the Watergate scandal.
Lynne said she learned a lot negotiating with unions in New York.
“I learned you can’t take your positions for granted,” she told the committee. “You have to move toward the middle.”
Garcia, who served in a dual role as state director of higher education, earned $158,000.
The job of lieutenant governor pays $68,500 a year, but Lynne is expected to make a total of $150,000 a year doubling as the state’s chief operating officer.
The House on Wednesday passed a bill to authorize the new lieutenant governor to do two jobs. The Senate is expected to agree.
Joey Bunch: 303-954-1174, jbunch@denverpost.com or @joeybunch
