The state Senate voted unanimously today to confirm Brennon Morioka as the director of the state Department of Transportation.

Morioka, a former state GOP chairman, was the department's deputy director for highways. He replaces Barry Fukunaga as director. Fukunaga is Gov. Linda Lingle's chief-of-staff.

State Sen. J. Kalani English, D-6th (E. Maui, Moloka'i, Lana'i), the chairman of the Senate Transportation and International Affairs Committee, said senators have had a good working relationship with Morioka.

"We consider him to be academically qualified, as well as well prepared for this job," English said.

State Sen. Gordon Trimble, R-12th (Waikiki, Ala Moana, Downtown), described Morioka as "capable, hardworking and dedicated."

The Senate vote was 22 to 0, with three senators excused.