As we all (sadly) know, Senator Paul Wellstone of Minnesota was killed in a plane crash, and it's up to Governor Jesse Ventura to appoint his replacement until such time as the victor in next Tuesday's election can take over. The Governor initially said he'd pick a Democrat since Wellstone was a Democrat but, after deciding he'd been exploited at the memorial service, Ventura now says he might choose otherwise. In the meantime, as this article explains, there is some dispute among the governor's legal advisors as to whether the appointment lasts until the winner is certified or until Wellstone's term expires.
Isn't this a no-brainer? Isn't it obvious that Ventura should announce (if possible, before the voting) that, barring a Florida-style dispute, he'll appoint Tuesday's winner? This would be the voters of his state picking their interim senator, which is way more democratic than the governor picking. It would also give the state's new senator a little head start in setting up his office, hiring his staff, learning the lay of the land, finding a place to live in Washington, etc. Best of all, it would neutralize the argument over the term of this appointment, which could get very nasty if it affects the balance of power in the Senate.
Democrats might not like the notion since there's the chance the Republican will win the state and if he immediately takes office, it would empower the G.O.P. side of the Senate right away. They're still counting on Ventura picking a Democrat since Wellstone was one. Republicans might not like the notion since they're running behind in Minnesota and, if they lose, it will give Walter Mondale that jump instead of some lame duck. But Ventura is supposed to be an Independent, and what would be more independent than pissing off both major parties and giving the power to the people?
When Ventura was a professional wrestler, he initially billed himself as "The Body." Later, he insisted that everyone refer to him as "The Brain." He now has the chance to prove that he's the latter. Let's see if he takes it.