Commission to pick senate seat

I think by now – even though it just broke – most folks (or a lot of folks) know that Senate Speak Pro Tempore Jamie Woodson is leaving office.

That means the county commission – for the second time in roughly six months - will appoint someone to serve on the state senate.

But, it's the real deal this time.

It's not like when they picked Steve Hill to serve as a seat warmer until the election. (Hill replaced Tim Burchett who stepped down to become county mayor. The new person will serve through 2012.

On a side note, it also means the local Legislative delegation will have two freshman senators on it.

The commission, according to chairman Mike Hammond, will make the appointment within 120 days of Woodson's official resignation. That means when she turns in her paperwork. Not from today. She's still sticking around for a little while.

The body will take applications, hold a public hearing then make an appointment.

I figure there are some mouths drooling for that job – and kick ass health care – right now.

Let the rumors start.

Update: The commission can take applications early, so someone is ready to step in the day after Woodson leaves. Also, the governor will have to call a special election, so technically this person could also be a seat warmer. But, we'll see.

Update II: Link to state law about special elections.