By Nathan Leaf
Enquirer Columbus Bureau

COLUMBUS - Gov. Bob Taft on Wednesday praised the historic election of Jennette Bradley as the nation's first black female lieutenant governor and promised to give her a cabinet post.

"Jennette will be considered for any cabinet openings for which she is qualified, and she would be qualified for a number of them," he said during a news conference.

He said she will also act as a development liaison for local government in housing and urban privatization.

"(Ms. Bradley's) going to be a great partner, a great member of the team," he said.

Ms. Bradley said her election proves Ohio is a state where anyone can be successful, regardless of race or sex.

"Ohio is a wonderful state where people can rise to the level of their competency and achieve and not be limited by artificial barriers," she said. "I hope (my election) is a very positive statement, nationally, for Ohioans as well as women and African-Americans."

When Ms. Bradley is sworn in Jan. 13, she will replace Lt. Gov. Maureen O'Connor. Ms. O'Connor won her own campaign Tuesday night for a seat on Ohio's Supreme Court.

Ms. Bradley is a Columbus City Councilman and bank executive.