I am just trying to understand something about U.S. elections.
Sen. Tim Johnson of South Dakota is in critical condition, and the analysts have started talking. In the event of an vacancy, looks like the Governor of the state can appoint another person to fill in.
I know several countries have something call by-elections for such scenarios. I also read that U.S. has a special election for the Congress or State legislature.
My question: Are Senate vacancies always filled in by the Governor appointments; or are their cases where special elections or by-elections can be held?
[b]This is not about Democrats vs Republicans; or balance of power in the Senate. Nor it is about Bush, Iraq war……[/b] Please do not take this thread in those directions.
ps: I skimmed thru this: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/By-election.