Sen. Emmerson's Sudden Resignation Leaves Seat in Limbo

State Sen. Bill Emmerson (R-Redlands) abruptly resigned his position Friday after nine years in office.

The representative posted the news about his departure on his web site. 

“Today I submitted a letter of resignation to the President pro Tempore of the California State Senate effective December 1, 2013.

My nine years of service have been some of the most fulfilling years of my life.  It has been an honor to work alongside my colleagues in both the State Assembly and the State Senate – institutions that I hold in the highest regard.

But it’s time for me to move on.

I have always felt that one had to be passionate about their work.  In these past few months, my passion has waned and my constituents deserve a Senator with the level of commitment that I once had.

My health is perfect and I leave with the satisfaction that I worked hard and did my very best.”

The sudden news has some guessing as to who may replace him. Several publications, including the Sacramento Bee, have named Assemblymen Mike Morrell, R-Rancho Cucamonga, and Tim Donnelly, R-Twin Peaks as possible replacements.

Donnelly, a Tea Party favorite, recently announced his run for governor of California.