The Janklow Seat

Will Stephanie Herseth run for it again?

?? :shrug:

Any SD DUers here?

there are no DUers from South Dakota. :-(

She is great

If Janklow drags this out by stalling and various legal maneuvers, how does his replacement take his seat? I know that the timing of any vacancy often dictates how it will be filled.

For example, if a Representative who is removed from or leaves office within 90 days of the general election, the office might just remain vacant until the election. More than 90 days but less than 180 days, maybe the governor appoints someone to fill the vacancy -- with the understanding that the replacement has to be of the same political party. More than 180 days out, a special election is held.

I don't know what the law in South Dakota is, but by dragging out any prosecution, Janklow can hang onto his seat until he's convicted (and maybe a little bit beyond), and forestall any special election. If the governor of South Dakota is sympathetic to Janklow, the governor can then appoint a hand-picked successor.

I understand that Herseth polled 47% of the vote in the last election against Janklow. I'd have to believe that she could win a special election against someone not as popular statewide as Janklow is (or rather was) reputed to be.

Vacancies are filled by special election or at a general election depending on the timing of the resignation or death.

I could see John Thune being pulled into the race since it would be a safer bet than running against Daschle if Janklow does resign/not run again.

I could see that happening. He would win the seat back without a problem.

nt