The Patriot has learned that despite what other media outlets are reporting, Senator Cecil Staton R-Macon has denied that he has stepped down from his position as Senate Majority Whip after being accused of sending emails railing against Lt. Governor Casey Cagle under the name Beth Merkelson.

Instead, Staton says he has asked his chief deputy whip, Sen. Greg Goggans, to help with some whip duties during the last day of the session on Thursday.

In the last week of the 2011 Legislative Session, Staton has been accused by some of being behind emails that were sent over the last week discussing a coup that was undertaken by Lt. Governor Casey Cagle, a few Republican Senators, and the Democrats to restore power to Cagle.

Staton has denied being responsible for the emails, but admits he belongs to those who sought to return power to the Senate rather than having all power rest in the Lt Governor.

That process occurred at a meeting of the Republican caucus in November.

The Atlanta Journal Constitution first reported that political activist Arch Adams delivered a 10 page report to Senate Republicans claiming that the out-spoken "Merkelson" and Staton were one in the same.

Staton, commented, "This is perhaps one of the craziest and silliest things I have experienced in my tenure in the Senate. I am remaining focused on representing my district and not being distracted by those who are more interested in power than what really matters to Georgians.”

Staton is owner and President of Georgia Eagle Media, the parent company of WRWR-TV 38 and WRWR radio stations in Warner Robins.