Giffords steps down from Congress in a video released today.

From the Arizona Republic.

How Giffords’ seat will be filled
US Rep. Gabrielle Giffords’ planned resignation this week will set in motion a chain of elections that will likely produce a new member of Congress from southern Arizona by the end of July.

Matt Roberts, spokesman for Arizona Secretary of State Ken Bennett, says Arizona law sets this timetable for filling a congressional vacancy:

-Within 72 hours after Giffords resigns, Gov. Jan Brewer has to call a special primary and general election to fill the seat.

-The special primary must occur within 80 to 90 days. The special election must occur within 50 to 60 days after the primary.

-The new member of Congress would fill the remainder of Giffords’ term, till Dec. 31, 2012.

-Looking at the calendar, it is possible that the special election could occur in July, and the winner would have to immediately gear up to run in the regularly scheduled primary in August, after about a month in office.

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