Press release from the State of Indiana:
Special Election, Third Congressional District
(INDIANAPOLIS – May 28, 2010) – Governor Mitch Daniels said today that a special election to replace the vacancy in Indiana’s Third Congressional District created by the resignation of Congressman Mark Souder will occur on the same day as the general election in November. Souder’s resignation was effective on May 21.
“After a week of reflection and gathering the views of others, I conclude that the public interest can best be served by a special election held simultaneously with the general election on November 2.
“The grounds for this decision are: the cost to taxpayers, the convenience of the voting public, and the involvement of the largest possible number of citizens in the selection of a new Congressman.
“It seems to me that these interests outweigh any gains from having a member of Congress present for what would amount to no more than 20 voting days.”
According to state and federal law, the governor is required to set a date for a special election. The governor issued Executive Order 10-03, which establishes the date of the special election. The writ of election is being delivered to the county clerks in the eight counties comprising the Third Congressional District.
A copy of the executive order may be found at this link.
Other related information:
- The estimated cost for a Third District special election separate from the general election is $850,000 to $950,000, according to the Indiana Secretary of State’s Office.
- When a Congressional vacancy occurs, the Congressional staff continues to work and serve citizens in the district. There will be no gap in constituent service.
- According to state law, the Republican and Democratic parties have 30 days from the effective resignation date (May 21) to caucus and certify their candidates for the special election. Independent candidates may circulate petitions to be placed on the special election ballot. The petitioning process can begin at any time, but must be completed no later than 50 days before the date of the scheduled special election. With various requirements for the major political parties, independent candidates, ballot printing and absentee voting, August would be the earliest time frame for a special election.
- With various recesses and targeted adjournment dates, Congress would likely have fewer than 20 voting days between early August and the general election.
Related Images:
