Whitfield to Resign, Triggering Special Election

Retiring U.S. Rep. Ed Whitfield says he will resign from office next week, triggering a special election that could give his successor a head start in Congress.

The Republican congressman notified Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin with a letter on Monday. Whitfield's chief of staff Taylor Booth confirmed  the letter and said Whitfield's resignation will be effective Sept. 6.

First elected in 1994, Whitfield announced his retirement last year in the midst of a House Ethics Committee investigation.

Bevin issued a press release thanking Whitfield for his many years of service, saying "he has served the people of Kentucky's first district admirably, and we wish him all the very best in the years ahead."

Bevin said he will issue a proclamation declaring that the special election to fill the unexpired term will be held on the same date and time as the General Election - November 8.

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell issued a statement, saying Whitfield served the people of Kentucky's First District with distinction, and fought hard for the people of western Kentucky, including those who worked at Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant and soldiers serving at Fort Campbell.

McConnell said, "I am thankful for our many years of friendship, and Elaine and I extend every best wish to Ed, Connie and the entire Whitfield family in the years ahead."

Former Agriculture Commissioner James Comer, the Republican Nominee for Whitfield's seat as First Congressional Congressman, also released a statement saying, "As his constituents, TJ and I have always admired his conservative values and steadfast support for the coal industry."

Regarding the Special Election, Comer said he will seek the nomination for the unexpired term, and expects to be on the ballot twice on November 8 - once for the unexpired term and once for the full two year term.