Topeka ? Gov. Mark Parkinson says he will wait until the Legislature has finished its session before picking his replacement as lieutenant governor.

In his first meeting with reporters since becoming governor, Parkinson said Friday that the person he picks must be someone he can work with and able to become governor immediately if necessary.

He also said his choice would be a fellow Democrat. Parkinson was a Republican until he switched parties in 2006 to be Kathleen Sebelius’ running mate.

He said his concern now is working with legislators to resolve a $328 million budget deficit.

Parkinson become governor Tuesday, when Sebelius resigned to become U.S. health and human services secretary.