The announcement was welcomed by Gov.-elect Marsha Blackburn, who said she looks forward to working with Johnson to make Tennessee a conservative leader across the country. McNally also congratulated Johnson, calling him a rock solid member of the Senate Republican caucus since his first vote for Ron Ramsey, Tennessee's first Republican lieutenant governor and speaker of the Senate in 140 years.

Johnson, a Republican, represents District 27, which covers Williamson County. A Texas native, he is a husband and father of three.

The lieutenant governor's office carries significant power in Tennessee: the officeholder presides over the state Senate and sets much of the chamber's agenda, making the transition a key moment for the incoming Blackburn administration and for the legislature's direction on issues including taxes, education and energy policy.

McNally's retirement ends a tenure that began when Republicans consolidated control of the Senate. Johnson's elevation signals continuity in leadership as the party prepares for the new governor's term.

A formal vote by the full Senate is expected when the legislature convenes, but Johnson's selection by the Republican caucus makes him the presumptive next lieutenant governor.