Gov. Bev Perdue has appoint Rep. Danny McComas, R-New Hanover, to chair the N.C. State Ports Authority. 

According to Perdue, McComas will resign his legislative seat Sept. 2 to take the job. 

“The ports are a critical component to the economy of North Carolina,” Perdue said in a news release. “Rep. McComas’ appointment demonstrates my commitment to the continued success and growth of the North Carolina State Ports Authority. I want the best person in the job, no matter what side of the aisle he or she sits on.”

McComas was first elected in 1994 and has served for 18 years; he announced earlier this year he would not seek re-election.

He is not the first Republican lawmakers that Perdue has appointed. Rep. David Guice, R-Transylvania, now heads the state's probation and parole agency. 

“I am honored to be given the opportunity to continue working to strengthen our state’s economy,”  Rep. Daniel McComas said. “The state ports service a vital economic need for all who choose to do business in North Carolina and it is imperative that we keep our state economically competitive. As chairman, I can continue my work in helping our state meet the demands of a global economy while improving the infrastructure needs of our state’s transportation systems.”

McComas currently serves as chairman of the Commerce Committee. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, he earned a bachelor’s of science degree in finance from St. Bonaventure University in New York, and lives in Wilmington with his wife Betty.