Heineman names regent as new lieutenant governor

LINCOLN — Nebraska Gov. Dave Heineman tapped former state Sen. Lavon Heidemann of Elk Creek Wednesday as his new lieutenant governor.

Heidemann, a University of Nebraska regent, took the oath of office during a public ceremony at the Capitol.

The 54-year-old Republican served as chairman of the Legislature's Appropriations Committee during his eight years in the Legislature. He left because of term limits.

Heidemann replaces former Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy. Sheehy resigned earlier this month following news that he had made thousands of calls to women, other than his wife, on his state-issued cellphone.

Heidemann is a farmer and livestock producer. He also is a volunteer firefighter.

Heineman, a Republican, had said he wants a replacement who does not intend to run for governor in 2014. Sheehy resigned after the phone calls to women became public. One woman has since confirmed that she and the lieutenant governor had engaged in a romantic relationship while Sheehy was married.

Sheehy's absence forced Heineman to appoint a new lieutenant governor to oversee the state's homeland security and information technology programs, and to attend public events on the governor's behalf. The lieutenant governor also presides over the Legislature on many days when lawmakers are in session.

Heineman said he doesn't want to give an advantage to any possible candidates in the Republican primary race. He also said he will appoint a replacement before the legislative session ends, which eliminates any current state senators.

The Nebraska Constitution prevents governors from appointing sitting state lawmakers while the Legislature is in session.