The networks are reporting Senator Torrecelli will hold a 4pm press
conference to announce something, perhaps his resignation in light of his
on-going ethics problems and the close partisan balance in the Senate.
(see: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A22574-2002Sep30.html).

Here's an excerpt that readers of this list will find interesting:
Under New Jersey law, a political party can replace a statewide nominee on
the ballot if the person drops out at least 48 days before the election. But
only 36 days remain until the Nov. 5 election, meaning Democrats would have
to seek approval from the state attorney general. That would likely result
in a court challenge from Republicans.
Under state law, if a candidate resigns his office or dies with more than 30
days to the election, the governor can appoint a new candidate. If it
happens with less than 30 days before the election, the race can be canceled
and the governor can set a new date for a special election.
==================================
Dr. Michael P. McDonald
Assistant Professor
Dept of Public and International Affairs
George Mason University
4400 University Drive - 3F4
Fairfax, VA 22030-4444

Office: 703-993-4191
Fax: 703-993-1399
Efax: 561-431-3190

mmcdon@gmu.edu
http://elections.gmu.edu/