The Legislature's Lazarus: Ron Thompson Restored

The House of Delegates gave Ron Thompson his seat back today in the 27th District.

On a voice vote, the House adopted a resolution that reverses the one approved last week declaring his seat vacant.

The House had previously concluded that the long-absent Thompson had refused to take his oath of office. But a doctor has written a letter on his behalf, saying he is being treated for a condition that is keeping him from the Capitol.

But this doctor also expects a fully recovery for Thompson, and believes he will be able to resume his legislative duties, House leaders say.

The letter prompted today's action. But as with last week's vote, the House was not unanimous.

Several GOP delegates questioned whether the House has the authority to undo its prior decision. (Those who voted "nay" last week argued that the House was acting too hastily, and that not enough was known about Thompson's situation).

As I note in The Associated Press story, the clerk and a WVU law professor who has (literally) written the book on the West Virginia Constitution say the House is within its rights.

The AP story can also be found here. MetroNews has a report as well, with audio.