Governor Pat Quinn

CHICAGO (AP) — Gov.-elect Bruce Rauner says legal analysis shows he can appoint a full-term replacement for the late Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka when he takes office in January.

Topinka passed away last Wednesday morning after winning a second term.

Attorney General Lisa Madigan issued legal analysis of succession plans Monday saying outgoing Gov. Pat Quinn can name a successor until Jan. 12 when current terms end and newly-elected officials are sworn in. After that Rauner should appoint someone. However, Madigan adds that voters should have a say in choosing a replacement in 2016.

In a statement, Rauner’s spokesman Mike Schrimpf raised legal questions about the timing of the special election for a constitutional officer. He says Rauner’s team has conducted its own legal analysis.

A spokesman says Quinn is reviewing Madigan’s guidance.

 

 

 

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