Perry and state officials have been waiting for Bush's resignation, which could happen any day. Bush has not yet publicly indicated when he will resign. It is President-elect Bush's prerogative to announce when he will resign. Once Perry is sworn in, the Senate has 30 days to choose his replacement. The legislative session begins Jan. 9.
Some senators say they are concerned about the time crunch.
That rule is set to be worked out during today's meeting. The Republican Caucus had not scheduled such a meeting by late Tuesday. Whoever wins will have the job of the lieutenant governor, but technically not the title. He or she will in effect be an acting lieutenant governor, presiding over the Senate until the 2002 election while continuing to serve as a senator. E.W. Scripps Publications , All Rights Reserved.