Governor’s Plans For Filling Redistricting Vacancy Bound To Anger Republicans

The next phase is underway in the controversy surrounding the make-up of the commissions that will redraw Missouri’s political boundaries. Attorney General Jay Nixon has informed Governor Bob Holden the vacancy created by the resignation of State Representative Mark Richardson from the commission must be filled, and Holden is the one who gets to choose the replacement. Nixon also recommends the Governor discuss the replacement with the Senate before naming that person. But the Governor doesn’t feel bound to do that. He says he has consulted with the Senate and might look to Senators or other individuals to get some input on the replacement. But he feels it is his decision to make. Holden says he will follow through with the regular consultation procedure involving the Senate following his selection.