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Briefly in the news

-- Paul Clinton

Assemblyman John Campbell took over as vice chairman of the Budget

Committee on Friday.

Campbell, who wrapped up his first year in the Legislature earlier

this month, was tabbed for the job by minority leader Dave Cox (R-Fair

Oaks).

Campbell represents Newport-Mesa.

Cox cited Campbell’s background as a certified public accountant and

owner of the county’s only Saab dealership as qualifications that led to

the appointment.

“I appreciate the leader having trust in me . . . during this trying

time,” Campbell said. “I’m confident that my background will help me

succeed under these difficult conditions.”

The state faces major budget challenges in the coming year, especially

after Gov. Gray Davis ordered a 15% across-the-board cutback for all

departments earlier this month.

The state’s weakening economy and contracts to power generators have

also led to the budget crunch.

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