Senator resigns for university system job

University System officials say he will be paid $165,000 a year in his new post.

Staton, first elected in 2004, was not running for re-election this year but was to finish his term. The Republican primary election to fill his seat next year was held Tuesday, and was won by John Kennedy. There is no Democratic opponent in November.

Staton’s resignation will not trigger a special election. He said he is resigning to become vice chancellor for extended education, effective June 1.