Political Power Struggle for Lt. Governor Cagle

ATLANTA, Ga. - A power struggle is developing at the Georgia state capitol, and Republican Lieutenant Goveor Casey Cagle is fighting the move to curtail his authority. The development comes two days after Republicans cemented control of state govement.

Cagle responded to word that leading GOP State Senate leaders would attempt to change Senate rules, taking away his powers, including his committee assignments. The move would leave him in a figurehead role as the presiding officer.

”I view this really as more politics, inside fighting, Cagle told Georgia Newsday on Thursday. ”I’m confident that the Senate is going to do the right thing, and we’re focused on issues that are important to Georgians.

Cagle also said a change would leave the Senate vulnerable as key decisions are made with the goveor and the Georgia State House.

Georgia Newsday tried to contact two Georgia Senate leaders who were said to be involved in the effort on Thursday, but got no response.

Cagle easily won re-election as Lieutenant Goveor in Tuesday’s midterm election.

Republicans now outnumber Democrats 35-21 in Georgia State Senate.