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You are here: Experts > Arts/Humanities > Political Science > Legislation, Presidential & Congressional Politics > President
Expert: Michael Troy - 10/3/2008
Question
Hello,
If, God forbid, McCain dies before the Presidential election, what would happen or who would take the place for the Republican candidate.
And if McCain and Palin were to die, what would happen.
Thank you in advance,
Uncle Don
(Oklahoma)
Answer
Hi Don,
Such a case would be unprecedented, but each party has its own rules with regard to how to deal with such an event. If John McCain and Sarah Palin died before the election, the rules of the Republican Party authorize the Republican National Committee to fill the vacancies, either by reconvening a national convention or by having RNC state representatives vote. The new nominee would have to receive a majority vote to officially become the party candidate. The same would happen even if only McCain died. The VP does not move up automatically unless the death comes after the election.
The other major issue is that all 50 States have ballot access laws. Changing the name on the ballot at the last minute might not be possible. You can be sure that would lead to lots of lawsuits.
I hope this helps!
- Mike
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