JUNEAU — Gov. Bill Walker has appointed his one-time running mate, Craig Fleener, to serve as successor to Lt. Gov. Byron Mallott should that office become vacant.
Fleener had been running as a lieutenant governor on an independent ticket with Walker last year. Mallott was the Democratic candidate for governor, and his running mate was Hollis French.
But after the primary, and in a bid to mount a greater challenge to Republican incumbent Sean Parnell, Walker joined with Mallott as part of a so-called unity ticket.
Fleener has since been named a special assistant to Walker, advising him on Arctic issues.
By law, a new governor is to appoint a successor to the office of lieutenant governor should that office become vacant.
Fleener's appointment is subject to legislative confirmation.