>>It is up to Gov. Deval Patrick to call a special election within 160 days of the vacancy.
I'm hearing Meehan's last day in office is July 1; now, let's say it takes 3-4 months for Patrick to call an election.
Does he get to appoint a temp. successor? (maybe not,
maybe it just stays vacant till then)
There is no constitutional authority to appoint US Representatives.