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12/06 17:37

Florida Legislature to Meet Friday in Special Election Session

By Glen Justice

Tallahassee, Florida, Dec. 6 (Bloomberg) -- Republican leaders in the Florida legislature said they'll convene a special session starting Friday and will name presidential electors if the battle between George W. Bush and Al Gore isn't resolved by the Dec. 12 deadline.

Republican State Senate President John McKay said Republican legislators will act Dec. 13 if necessary to ensure that Florida's voters aren't disenfranchised. Florida's 25 Electoral College votes will determine which candidate becomes president when the Electoral College meets Dec. 18.

``It would be irresponsible of us if we failed to put a safety net,'' McKay said. ``Our sole objective will be to select a state of electors that are untainted.''

Republicans control the Florida House 77-43 and the Senate 25- 15, and have made it clear they will select electors pledged to Bush. Bush was certified as the winner in Florida, but Gore is seeking recounts in two predominantly Democratic counties.

Democrats are also trying to invalidate absentee votes in two predominantly Republican counties; if those court challenges succeed, Gore will likely overtake Bush in the vote count.

``The action taken today is done with considerable reluctance on my part,'' McKay said. ``My primary objective is simple, to ensure that the voters of Florida are not disenfranchised.''

Article II, Section 1 of the U.S. Constitution states: ``Each state shall appoint, in such manner as the legislature thereof may direct, a number of electors.'' In addition, a federal law authorizes state legislatures to appoint electors in cases of disputed outcomes.

-- (Indecision@2000.now), December 06, 2000