I’m on the fence about this. On one hand, it’s one less R vote. On the other hand, Kentucky has been leaning blue lately, so it’s possible a dem would be elected (though that’s obviously not guaranteed).
There’s also been talk about the governor appointing someone, which would be best. But I’ve also read that Kentucky changed their constitution after he was elected taking that power away from the governor, and forcing a special election for cases like this.
My guess is that the governor is being pushed to appoint someone so the Rs have to sue saying it’s against the Kentucky constitution. In doing so, the status of McConnell would be part of discovery.
I know the rules around interim senators is different for all states. I assume any appointment would be a republican. A special election might benefit dems, i just don’t believe KY is really moving left. They traditionally elect a democrat governor, but are hard R for all national elections.
In kentucky, when the governor used to appoint a replacement, it had to be of the same party as the previous senator. But there was new law passed where now a special election must take place.
I believe after August 3rd even if they proclaim he’s dead there will be no special election to replace him before regular elections.
For KY, it’s probably better to leave his seat empty as long as possible.
I’m on the fence about this. On one hand, it’s one less R vote. On the other hand, Kentucky has been leaning blue lately, so it’s possible a dem would be elected (though that’s obviously not guaranteed).
There’s also been talk about the governor appointing someone, which would be best. But I’ve also read that Kentucky changed their constitution after he was elected taking that power away from the governor, and forcing a special election for cases like this.
My guess is that the governor is being pushed to appoint someone so the Rs have to sue saying it’s against the Kentucky constitution. In doing so, the status of McConnell would be part of discovery.
I know the rules around interim senators is different for all states. I assume any appointment would be a republican. A special election might benefit dems, i just don’t believe KY is really moving left. They traditionally elect a democrat governor, but are hard R for all national elections.
Why would a Democrat governor voluntarily appoint a Republican Senator?
In kentucky, when the governor used to appoint a replacement, it had to be of the same party as the previous senator. But there was new law passed where now a special election must take place.
I always assumed there was a rule, but it looks like very few states actually have rules. KY being one of those states.
It takes them longer to forge them… otherwise, it wouldn’t make any difference.