Kim Guadagno, elected in November as the state’s first lieutenant governor, will also serve as secretary of state in the administration of Gov.-elect Chris Christie, according to three officials familiar with the decision. Guadagno will combine the traditional portfolio of the secretary of state — overseeing arts, tourism and cultural programs, as well as the Division of Elections — with a key economic development role. She will also head the “New Jersey Partnership for Action,” a new umbrella organization that will assist businesses looking to move to or expand in New Jersey.

Christie is expected to nominate Guadagno to the secretary of state post Wednesday, making her the second cabinet pick this week following today’s announcement of Essex County Prosecutor Paula Dow for Attorney General, according to the officials. They spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the appointment in advance.

Guadagno, 50, is currently the Monmouth County Sheriff. She will become New Jersey’s first lieutenant governor when she is sworn in alongside Christie on Jan. 19. Read full article in Star Ledger.