A proposal: replace a departing Senator in a special election

[question everything]

Right now, both in Illinois and in New York we are watching the sad spectacle of individuals wanting the prize seat which, coming from a Democratic state, will be theirs as long as they want.

Once in office, they will enjoy the power of incumbency.

Sure, special elections are costly, but at least there is a transparency. Do we even know what kind of deals are being made now in New York?

(Do we want to know?)

[OmmmSweetOmmm]

1. And who is going to fund it. My state, NY is getting strapped for money.

[PeaceNikki]

3. Therin lies the problem

[Idealism]

2. This has always been the way

That is why governships are so important. The GOP appoints their people, just like Governor hopefuls upon winning the position clear out the state level and put in their party members. Just another tool of political parties, and this is something that won't get changed

[Gman]

4. The state must still be represented

which is why many states will appoint someone to serve until the next election year (2012). Then they run for a full term. Some states provide for a special election that fills the rest of the vacated term. I don't know the laws in IL or NY for this, but I suspect it's likely an appointment until the next election year.

To keep the seat open until a special election (which could be 6 months down the road) denies the people of the state representation that they are entitled to. You may say they are already represented by the other senator. But the people are entitled to 2 senators.

[question everything]

7. An interim senator, then, can be appointed until the special elections

Jesse Ventura did this after the tragic death of Paul Wellstone just 10 days before the general elections in 2002.

As it is in Illinois, there will be special elections to replace Rahm Emanuel and, as reported on CNN (I think) there are going to be several municipal elections in February and in April so this one can be part of them.

[DJ13]

5. Bad idea, as an election would be open to both party's

[question everything]

6. Well, yes. This is what democracy is all about.

Seems that I am in a good company, as IL Senator Durbin says the same, at least for replacing Obama.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x7967604

[Ioo]

8. If I were him, I would pick my wife real fast, before the law is changed

Just to make sure you get people good and pissed off before you get thrown in jail.