Senator Robert Byrd passes away, West Virginia Governor to fill in

Senator Robert Byrd has passed away at the age of 92, and West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin could fill in.

Robert Byrd was 92 and his passing makes things a bit complicated for the Democrats in Congress.

The Democrats’ majority is now 58 to 41. This means that they need two more votes for a filibuster. This is in a moment in which president Obama was hoping to pass the financial reform legislation and have it signed into law before the National Day.

Elena Kagan is also losing a vote for the Supreme Court confirmation.

Joe Manchin, the Democratic West Virginia Governor, could be Senator Robert Byrd’s replacement. Still, it is not yet clear whether he can do this for the remainder of the term (until 2013).

Senator Robert Byrd was the longest serving Congress member. He has served continuously from 1953 until he passed away.