[a fool in paradise]

Murtha's passing comes at a tenuous time for House Democrats as they seek to convince some of their older members to re-up for another term in the face of what looks to be a difficult national political environment for the party.

Nonsense. The governor(D) can appoint a lameduck Democrat to pass the Party legislation and not face the wrath of the voters (no intent to run for re-election).

[smoothsailing]

Nonsense. The governor(D) can appoint a lameduck Democrat to pass the Party legislation and not face the wrath of the voters (no intent to run for re-election).

Governor's cannot appoint House members to fill vacant seats. House seats can only be filled by elections.

[digger48]

Nonsense. The governor(D) can appoint a lameduck Democrat to pass the Party legislation and not face the wrath of the voters (no intent to run for re-election).

I don’t believe Governors appoint replacement Representatives. Special election, seat stays empty until, IIRC

but then again, we’re talking about a Democrat
Seat here, so any and all previous election/selection laws are hereby and forthwith rendered null and void.

[Jim Noble]

Nonsense. The governor(D) can appoint a lameduck Democrat to pass the Party legislation

THAT'S nonsense.

Members of our House can only sit there by election. They are NEVER appointed (as Senators can be).

[tcrlaf]

Only for the Senate, they must hold an election for the house.