Indian American woman named Republican whip

Indian American Nikki Randhawa Haley has been named as majority whip for the House Republican Caucus in the South Carolina General Assembly.

As majority whip, Haley will be responsible for lining up votes in support of caucus priorities and setting the direction of the 74-member Republican majority.

"Haley was selected because of her proven leadership skills. She is always prepared when we go to the floor and she's passionate about issues of concern to her constituents," Republican chief whip Shirley Hinson said.

For Nikki this is the third leadership position she's held in her first two years in the General Assembly.

"I'm honoured to be recognised again by my peers and I know this new position helps me serve my constituents.This position will help me drive legislation that will benefit Lexington County and the entire state," Nikki said.

In addition to serving her constituents from Lexington County, Haley serves as secretary of the medical, military, public and municipal affairs committee and was elected chairman of the freshman caucus before the last session.

"Republican Randhawa Haley proved throughout her first year that she is a leader," said Majority Leader Jim Merrill adding, "her hard work and enthusiasm, day in and day out, will be a valuable addition to our leadership team."

In June 2004, Nikki trounced incumbent Larry Koon in a run-off election in South Carolina's house district 87. Koon was the longest-serving member of the South Carolina House of Representatives.