- FAST FACTS:
- Governor has 20 days to issue writ of election
- Election could align with Special Mayoral Election
- Questions raised over whether Cmsn. will appoint an interim
tom.powell@wreg.com
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(MEMPHIS July 28, 2009) -- Senator Paul Stanley's resignation will be official on August 10, 2009.
Election officials say the Governor will then have 20 days to issue a writ of election, which is a statement ordering the holding of a special election.
A primary would then have to be held within 50-60 days, and a special election within 40-47 days.
Election Commission Chairman Bill Giannini says the date for the special election would nearly align with the special election for Mayor of Memphis. "It would save the taxpayers money. We're only talking about days difference from the code."
Giannini says he doesn't see any compelling reasons for the appointment of an interim senator to fill Stanley's seat because the session is over.
County Commissioner Deidre Malone agrees, however if the Shelby County Commission does end up appointing an interim, she says the fair thing to do would be to appoint a Republican. "I would support a Republican," she says.
