Hettrick chosen to lead GOP again

Friday, Nov. 10, 2000 | 10:52 a.m.

CARSON CITY -- Assemblyman Lynn Hettrick of Minden will again lead the Republicans in the lower house in the 2001 Legislature.

Hettrick, chosen minority leader at a GOP caucus Thursday in Las Vegas, said he will have no trouble working with Assembly Speaker Richard Perkins and Majority Leader Barbara Buckley, the Democratic leaders.

Democrats control the Assembly 27-15.

There was no opposition to Hettrick at the caucus held at a restaurant-bar where 11 of the 15 Republicans attended. Hettrick has been minority leader in 1997 and 1999. And he was co-speaker of the Assembly in 1995 when there was an even split among Republicans and Democrats.

Assemblywoman Barbara Cegavske, R-Las Vegas, was chosen assistant minority leader. The caucus named two "whips" -- Greg Brower of Reno and Kathy Von Tobel of Las Vegas.

Assemblyman Dennis Nolan, R-Las Vegas, was the GOP "whip" at the last session. But he said he was willing to step aside to give others a chance at leadership positions. The "whip" makes sure party people toe the line.

Hettrick said the GOP members want to groom others for leadership roles.

Hettrick was asked how he would get along with Perkins who was elected majority leader by the Democrats on Wednesday.

Perkins was majority leader last session, and they got along fine, Hettrick said. "He's a straight- forward guy."

Hettrick also has worked with Buckley in the past, and he does not anticipate problems.

"We will work out just fine," he said.

During the caucus, the Assembly Republicans talked about the issues, but there were no disagreements, Hettrick said.

Senate Republicans still must hold their caucus for election of officers. But there are no serious challengers to Sen. Bill Raggio, R-Reno, who has been minority leader since 1993.

Democratic senators named Dina Titus as their minority leader Wednesday night. And Perkins was also chosen Wednesday.

So far, the committee assignments have not been made. But Democrat and Republican leaders say that will be done in the next few weeks.

There probably won't be many changes since there are only three new faces in the 63-member Legislature.