Senate Republicans have elected Sen. Dave Rader, R-Tulsa, caucus chair and Senator Greg McCortney caucus vice chair, the President Pro Tempore’s Office announced.

The elections were necessary due to the resignation of Senator Jason Smalley, who previously served as caucus chair. Rader previously served as caucus vice chair.

McCortney, R-Ada, recently was appointed chair of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee to fill a vacancy created by the resignation.

“Caucus chair and vice chair are important leadership roles, and I know Senator Rader and Senator McCortney will do a great job on behalf of the Senate Republican Caucus,” said Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City.