Manchin Expects to Name Byrd Replacement on Friday
West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin (D) is now expected to name a replacement for late Sen. Robert Byrd (D) by 5 p.m. Friday.
NBC News’ Kelly O’Donnell reports:
“„Aides say Manchin will call the Legislature into special session to consider the legislation starting noon Thursday, July 15. The governor is expected to make an appointment, to fill the senate seat temporarily, by 5 p.m. this Friday.
“„An aide to the governor says, “This bill would merely clarify the state code so that there is no question that we could have a special primary and special general election.”
Previous reports indicated Manchin would not announce until as late as Sunday. This basically guarantees Byrd’s replacement will be in office next week, meaning the Senate can again take up the long-stalled unemployment benefits extension with the replacement being a likely 60th vote.
