Damn. Just Damn.
U.S. Rep. Bob Ney, dogged by an influence peddling probe in Washington, will not seek re-election, state Sen. Joy Padgett said early Monday.
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This is really upsetting. So far, Ney's link to Abramoff is probably more transparent than any other congressman.
But is Ney allowed to bow out like this after Ohio already had their primary? Isn't this tantammount to what Delay's been trying to do? Or is it completely different.I'm not exactly well versed in election law so I'd appreciate some input.
I've always been pessimistic about our chances with this seat to begin with. Zack Space, although I know little about the guy, is a weak candidate on paper. But there's plenty of time for Space to catch on. I'd love to hear from the locals on this one :-)
Update As jorndoff points out in the comments, Ohio state law requires the Republicans to hold another primary to replace Ney on the ballot. According to Roll Call:
Because the Ohio primaries already have taken place, state law requires another primary be called to select a new nominee if a ballot vacancy arises more than 80 days before the November election.
Will the Republicans unite around Padgett and give her a clear path in this primary? We'll see.
Another Update As it turns out, another primary is not warranted by Ohio Law Instead, Ney will be able to pretty easily substitute himself with Padgett::
the vacancy in the party nomination so created may be filled by a district committee of the major political party that made the nomination at the primary election