[savedbygrace]

He's in a chemically induced coma, and they claim they are bringing him out of it S L O W L Y.

The governor cannot unilaterally decide to replace him. Johnson must either be dead, or submit a resignation letter first. Ain't gonna happen. They can keep him 'alive' for years. Heck, he could remain in a coma and run for re-election, and maybe even win another six year term.

[Constitutions Grandchild]

"Heck, he could remain in a coma and run for reelection, and maybe even win another six year term."

First of all, I pray for Senator Tim Johnson's full and complete recovery. Second of all, you can be elected (at least in Missouri) even if a death certificate has been issued, your remains publicly interred, and your social security death benefit issued to your surviving spouse. That is, IF you are a Democrat. I don't think that rule applies to Republicans.