Special vote possibly needed

Advertiser Staff

Despite her death, U.S. Rep. Patsy Mink's name will be on the ballot for Hawai'i's 2nd Congressional District on the Nov. 5 ballot.

What happens next?

Mink's name will appear on the Nov. 5 ballot.

What happens if she wins?

The seat would be declared vacant and a special election would be held so voters could select a replacement.

When would the special election be held?

At least 60 days after the seat is declared vacant, but it could take 120 days to prepare for the election.

Would there be a runoff election later between the candidates from each party who win the most votes in the special election?

No. The candidate with the most votes in the special election would win outright.

Would candidates have to reside in the 2nd Congressional District to qualify for the ballot?

No. Candidates could live anywhere within Hawai'i, but must be at least 25 years old and have been a U.S. citizen for at least seven years before the election.

What happens to the congressional seat in the meantime?

It simply remains vacant until at least the end of the current term, on Jan. 3.

How much would the special election cost?

About $2 million.