JACKSON — Coast freshman Sen. Brice Wiggins was named chairman today of the powerful Senate Ports and Marine Resources Committee by Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves.

It's not often a new lawmaker receives such a top position in his first term.

"It's a huge honor," Wiggins said. "U can't say enough about the decisions Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves has made. He has looked after the Coast in committee appointments, particularly Jackson County. I'm looking to do Jackson County and the lieutenant governor proud."

Reeves praised the large freshman class of lawmakers. He also crossed the aisle on numerous appointments, naming some Democrats as top chairmen, and called for an end to the partisanship that has kept the Capitol in turmoil over the last few years.

To see other appointments, follow this story online at sunherald.com and in print.