Two spots up for grabs at Republican convention?

Two spots up for grabs at Republican convention?

The current rumor circulating among Republicans is that Peter Cianchette will resign his post as National Committeeman from Maine. If so, that would mean that both posts will be up for grabs this Friday, when Republicans convene in Augusta.

Karen Raye, the current National Committeewoman has announced she will not be running for reelection so that she can spend her time at family's mustard business in Washington County. Currently two people have announced their intentions to run for the post; Jan Staples, who held the post prior to Raye and the former Chair of the Republican Party, Kathy Watson. This will be a good race, although it should be noted no one has been able to explain to me what they do - other than get better seats at events.

Peter Cianchette is expected to receive Senate confirmation for the ambassadorship to Costa Rica this week, which would preclude him from serving in any partisan roles. He has not resigned yet, but is expected to do so as early as today. There have been a number of candidates mentioned including, Karl Turner, Josh Tardy and Rick Bennett. It is likely that a candidate will emerge by mid-week.