Gov. Wolf picks new AG: Inspector General Bruce Beemer

HARRISBURG, Pa. (WTXF/AP) - Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf is nominating Kathleen Kane's former top deputy to step in as attorney general for the remaining months of her term.

Wolf announced Thursday he had tapped Bruce Beemer for the job. He must still get the approval of two-thirds of the Senate. Until then, former Montgomery County district attorney Bruce Castor will serve as acting DA.

"Bruce Beemer has a depth of experience, he has the respect of the employees of the Office of the Attorney General, and I have no doubt that he will make this transition seamless and smooth," said Gov. Wolf. "I have spoken with Republican and Democratic leaders in the Senate, and we have agreed that Bruce is the right fit for Attorney General at this time, and I am confident that he will be confirmed expeditiously. Bruce earned a reputation across the commonwealth as a tough prosecutor, effective administrator and thoughtful legal mind, which is why I appointed him Inspector General. I have great faith in his ability and know that he will serve efficiently and effectively as Attorney General. I also want to thank Bruce Castor for his service to the office, and I wish him well moving forward."

Just last month, Wolf hired Beemer as inspector general. If confirmed, Beemer would return to the attorney general's office until a successor is picked by voters in November and sworn in, Jan. 17.

Then, he'd return to his role as Inspector General.

As first deputy in the Office of the Attorney General of Pennsylvania, he oversaw the day to day operations of the Criminal, Civil, and Public Protection Divisions, as well as being responsible for the management of almost 800 employees.

Kane was convicted of leaking secret grand jury information to smear a rival and lying under oath to cover it up.

Beemer openly clashed with Kane after the state Supreme Court suspended her law license last fall. He also gave unflattering testimony about Kane at her trial last week.