COLUMBIA (WACH)-Richland County Representative Todd Rutherford is the new House minority leader.

Rutherford, a Columbia attorney,  has been in the House of Representatives serving House District 74 since 1999.

Rutherford, known for his outspoken, often elaborate, style in the House.

Rutherford replaces Rep. Harry Ott, (D)-Calhoun, who made the decision to step down Saturday.

Rutherford was elected in a 33-12 vote Tuesday over Rep. Ted Vick of Chesterfield. The vote was behind closed doors.

Ott decided not to seek re-election after eight years in the post, saying he couldn't commit to another two years.

In a release, Rutherford said, “I am honored to be chosen by my colleagues to lead House Democrats in a new, and hopefully more successful direction. I want to personally thank Representative Harry Ott for his many years of service to this caucus. Rep. Ott has done an outstanding job as our leader and will remain an integral part of our decision making process. I look forward to getting down to work to expand our numbers and elect more Democrats to the House."