RALEIGH, N.C. - The woman chosen to replace former Rep. Thomas Wright is officially a state lawmaker.
Sandra Spaulding Hughes was sworn in to office Tuesday by House Speaker Joe Hackney during a ceremony in the House chamber. Hughes is a former Wilmington city council member and will serve out the remainder of Wright's term.       Wright was expelled from the House last month for ethical misconduct. Fellow House members decided he mishandled or misused more than $340,000 in charitable and campaign contributions and a bank loan.       right was convicted on similar criminal charges last week and sentenced to prison.       Gov. Mike Easley appointed Hughes based on the recommendation of Democrats in the 18th House District, which covers portions of Pender and New Hanover counties