Much of the news surrounding James Manning’s appointment to the Senate Wednesday, Dec. 14, has focused on the political upset the selection caused for former House Majority Leader Val Hoyle who also sought the position after losing the May primary for Secretary of State.

But Manning is an interesting choice for other reasons. First, he was bold enough to express his desire to reform the Public Employees Retirement System, a sensitive topic for public unions who largely support Democrats, according to a report by The Register-Guard. Secondly, he will be Lane County’s first black legislator, and he will be one of three African-Americans in the increasingly diverse Senate in 2017.

Sen. Jackie Winters, R-Salem, and Rep. Lew Frederick, D-Portland, who won Senate District 22 Nov. 8.

The Lane County Board of Commissioners appointed Manning to succeed Sen. Chris Edwards, D-Eugene, who is resigning Dec. 31 to work at the University of Oregon. Manning is a U.S. Army veteran and a former Eugene Water and Electric Board commissioner.

“While we certainly will miss Sen. Edwards for his numerous contributions to the state of Oregon, we are thrilled ot have someone with James’ experience, enthusiasm and perspective join our ranks,” Senate Majority Leader Ginny Burdick, D-Portland, said in a statement.