Topeka ? Jeff Jack, a Republican state legislator from Parsons, has been appointed by Gov. Kathleen Sebelius to serve as a state district judge.

Sebelius, a Democrat, praised Jack for his independence and “tackling tough issues and solving problems.”

Jack, an attorney and two-term legislator, will preside over the 11th Judicial District, which includes Cherokee, Labette, and Crawford counties.

Republican precinct leaders in his district will select a replacement for Jack in the Legislature.