John Mercurio writes on the speculation over who will be appointed to the Senate to succeed either John McCain or Barack Obama. For the moment, I’m concerned only with McCain’s seat, since in the case of Barack Obama, a Democrat Governor will undoubtedly appoint a Democrat to succeed a Democrat. In Arizona however, things are a little bit trickier:
This speculation is sound, as far as it goes. But I think Mercurio and others lack imagination in assuming that Napolitano will pick a ‘real’ Republican — one who will caucus with Republicans, support the Republican agenda, and back a Republican for Senate leader. She may not. If the law requires only that she appoint a Republican, why not name a RIRO — a Republican in Registration Only. After all, Arizona law does not require that Republican leaders approve her selection — or even take part in the process. She may appoint a liberal Republican, or even a Republican who would caucus with Senate Democrats.
