Just read this article on The Fix.
Charleston Mayor Danny Jones (R) said Wednesday morning that he believes the state legislature will take up legislation that would move the special election to this year.
According to local reports, Jones said he has reason to believe Gov. Joe Manchin (D) will add the issue to the slate for a special session next month. (The special session, which is focused on education, is set to start on July 19.)
The article gives more info; well worth reading. To some extent, it comes down to what the Governor Manchin thinks is in his best interest. Reasons why it's good for him in 2010:
- He's very popular - in two years, anything could happen and his numbers could fall.
- A short election gives an opponent less time to tear him down.
- It looks better to have an election sooner - people might resent him if they feel he is taking away their right to vote.
- A lot shorter of a time for a placeholder to be in the seat.
- In 2012, Obama is going to be on the top of the ticket and he's unpopular in West Virginia. If he wins in 2010, Manchin would be running as an incumbent in 2012 and that's usually worth a bit.
Cons:
- It's a horrible year for Dems. If Mass voted GOP, why not West Virginia?
- There might be a few more things he wants to do as Gov - his term is less than half up.
I think the next few days will see this resolved one way or the other. I have a funny feeling that the election will be in 2010, now.