Wolf taps former Pa. prosecutor to lead attorney general’s office

Gov. Tom Wolf has nominated an interim Pennsylvania attorney general in the wake of Kathleen Kane’s conviction and resignation.

Bruce Beemer, who has served as state inspector general for a little over a month, is no stranger to the attorney  general’s office.

He served as first deputy attorney general under Kane, but resigned early last month as her trial began.

Beemer also testified against Kane in the trial.

Wolf spokesman Jeffrey Sheridan said Beemer will be a much-needed breath of fresh air in the troubled office.

“Well, he has the experience. He’s been in the office, he knows the employees, they respect him,” Sheridan said Thursday. “And as far as moving forward, and moving beyond what has happened, we believe that he was the best fit to do that.”

The office is currently being run by Kane’s most recent first deputy, Bruce Castor.

“The governor thanks Bruce Castor for his service to the office, and he wishes him well moving forward,” Sheridan said. “We believe that Bruce Beemer is the best fit right now.”

Beemer now must be confirmed by the Senate.

Republican leaders said they support Beemer’s nomination, and that a vote will be held “in the near future.”

If confirmed, Beemer will return to his inspector general post after a newly elected attorney general takes office in January.