McCain's record of actual achievement and reform helps explain why so many special interests, lobbyists and comfortable committee chairmen in Congress have fought the prospect of a McCain presidency from the primary election of 2000 to this very day.

NPR: Transcript: Gov. Sarah Palin At The RNC

It also suggests that the removal process has been going on during a "90-day quiet period" prior to the August 14 primary election.

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The other option would be to wait until after the GOP presidential primary and try to time the recall election to take place on November 6, 2012, the day of the national elections.

FORBES: Wisconsin Democrats Fret Over Strategy For Walker Recall

So if Kerry were nominated, confirmed, and then stepped down on January 21 (Inauguration Day), the election would take place between June 14 and June 29, with primary elections being held six weeks earlier.

CNN: Source: Obama to tap Kerry to be next secretary of state