Question

Eugene Talmadge was elected governor of Georgia in 1946; however, he died before taking office, causing turmoil in Georgia government. Which statement best explains the reason for the rise of controversy surrounding the governor's seat in that election?

Answer 1

His son, Eugene Talmadge was given the seat by the state Legislature, but Melvin Thompson was elected to a newly created office of lt. governor and he claimed to also be the governor.  Actual fights broke out because Thompson refused to leave the office.  Thompson was anti-Talmadge.

Answer 2

Controversy arose because the state constitution did not address how to handle death of governor-elect. The constitution only addressed how to handle deaths of governors in office.

Hope I helped