morrison out

So it's official, Paul Morrison is out. It's been an amazing turnaround. About a week ago, Morrison was a highly-respected Attorney General, and a natural candidate for Governor or Lt. Governor at the end of Sebelius' term. Now, he's facing unemployment, an independent investigation launched by his arch-nemesis Phill Kline, and possible suspension or disbarment. While it was unavoidable, and probably the right decision, it's a big disappointment.

I still hope that he will be proved innocent of any professional wrongdoing. Even assuming that everything Linda Carter said is true, there is skimpy evidence that Morrison did much worse than violating staff regulations on office relationships. Now that the political damage is done, I hope that his political enemies don't try to destroy him.

Next, Sebelius will name his replacement, who will serve until 2010. There will not be a special election, as some Republican trolls have been suggesting on other blogs. The Kansas Constitution, Article I, Section 11, is clear on this issue:

When the office of secretary of state or attorney general is vacant, the governor shall fill the vacancy by appointment for the remainder of the term.

Stay Red Kansas has suggested that Sebelius might appoint Securities Commissioner Chris Biggs as Morrison's replacement. Biggs was the Geary County Attorney and a Democrat candidate for AG. Although he has lots of criminal law experience, there are some doubts about his political skills. Biggs was the man who lost to Phill Kline in the 2002 Attorney General race. However, in fairness to Biggs, 2002 was a year of major Republican gains everywhere. If Sebelius can't find any ready-for-prime-time replacements, Biggs might soon be the new face of Kansas law enforcement.

At the very least, Morrison's early exit will minimize the political fallout. All other state-level Democrats have emerged unscathed. It's also doubtful that many people will remember this once the presidential election season kicks in, much less in 2010. It might be cold comfort, but at least it's something.