As near as I can understand the Secretary of State's opinion, Governor Manchin will appoint Byrd's successor (I predict Gayle or Ann Barth) to serve TWO YEARS then in 2012 folks run in the Democratic primary for (a) the unexpired SIX WEEKS of Senator Byrd's existing term and (b) the full term of six years which starts in 2013. Whew. Can you believe the "oddness" of where we find ourselves?
Poor Governor Manchin. He would make an excellent successor to Senator Byrd but two years is a long time. If the Legislature can change the above rules, the problem is that some in the Legislature who plan to run for governor in 2012 don't want Joe to leave office early and give Earl Ray two years as governor prior to 2012.
This is going to get interesting.
