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O'Malley to Seek Change in Law to Replace Wynn
Gov. Martin O'Malley wants to avoid two elections, costing $2 million.
(By Brian Witte -- Associated Press)
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Edwards, who defeated Wynn by 22 points, is widely expected to run in any special election. Edwards spokesman Dan Weber said she is waiting for a formal decision from O'Malley on the special election issue before commenting.
James said he has not been briefed on the plan by the O'Malley, who he said has not responded to his request to discuss the issue. James said his chances for victory in the heavily Democratic district could be boosted by holding a low-turnout special election. But he questioned the cost to taxpayers, noting that because of the summer recess, Congress will be in session for only a limited time between June and January.
"For a few weeks of being in office, it just seems to me it's a big waste of money to have another election," James said.
Legislative leaders in both parties said they will study the governor's proposal. A spokesman for the Maryland Attorney General's office said lawyers there are examining the idea to see whether it would pass constitutional muster.
House Minority Leader Anthony J. O'Donnell (R-Calvert) said he is "willing to discuss" the governor's proposal. He said he sees "pros and cons on both sides" to having an election, "between the expense on the one hand and the lack of representation on the other."
"The seat has to be filled," Senate Minority Leader David R. Brinkley (R-Frederick) said.
He said he needed to look at the details of a general election and how the Republican candidate would be chosen.
