On November 4, Republican Judy Baar Topinka was re-elected to another four-year term as Comptroller of Illinois. But she died on December 10, before inauguration day for the newly-elected statewide executive officers. The Illinois Constitution says when one of those officers dies, the Governor may replace the officer; there is no provision for a special election.
There are technically two vacancies to fill: one for the remainder of the current term, which expires in a few weeks; and one for the next four year period. This article discusses the unresolved legal questions.
Topinka, 70, suffered a stroke on December 9. She was one of the most popular politicians in Illinois; see this story about her.
Regardless of party or political philosophy, we of a civilized society and of the human race, acknowledge sorrow when one of our kind passes away. My prayers and thoughts are with the Topinka family.
But as far as replacing her, at least let the governor name a successor to serve until the regular election to be held in 2016, when at that time a special election for the remaining two years should be held.
It is and would be a waste of taxpayers money to call for a special election to elect one person to a single office, technicalities notwithstanding.
RIP for her.
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However – the party hack MORONS have had since 1776 to make provisions for a vacancy in ANY office due to ANY reason.
A very limited number of things that can happen — to be dealt with according to LAWS — not some ad hoc tyrant machinations.
Where is that Model Election LAW ???