“Citizen reaction to former Governor Murkowski appointing his daughter, Lisa, to a vacant Senate seat in 2002 was a 2004 ballot initiative stripping the Governor of this power (56% to 44%).” According to the Alaska Elections website, the 2002 initiative “repeal[s] state law by which the Governor makes a temporary appointment of a person to fill a U.S. Senate vacancy until a special or regular election can be held.”

Under the initiative the seat would remain vacant until the election is certified and the senate meets. Existing law provides that a special election will be held within 60 to 90 days to fill a vacancy unless the vacancy occurs within 60 days of the primary election for that seat. This initiative does not change that provision.

The 2002 explanation continues: “This measure does not authorize appointment of a U.S. Senator.”

Source: Kathy Gill, About.com Guide to US Politics since 2004

Democrat Takes Lead in Alaska Senate Race

If Bush pardoned him, there would be no felony conviction to throw him out of the Senate. And I’m sure Bush would cite Stevens’ age as a reason for the pardon. It would also keep a much needed seat in Republican control.

Just a thought……

Did you see Palin on CNN last night? She told Wolf Blitzer that she would not “appoint” herself or any member of her family to replace Ted Stevens but she would not promise to serve out her term as governor either. She said her life “is in God’s hands” and she will serve wherever the people of Alaska need her the most.

Isn’t that charming? This woman is crawling all over herself to get this job.

But as of last night, Mark Begich was three votes ahead of Stevens. What a cliffhanger! Let’s see how this one plays out.

Dwayne