State Senator John Benoit Reacts To Wilson Resignation, Recommendation

PALM DESERT– “When I saw him struggling with a crutch or even a walker…How long are you gonna do this? Are you gonna run again?”

Staffers like Denys Arcuri knew Roy Wilson’s resignation was coming. But the timing of the announcement surprised many close to him, including the man he supports as his replacement, State Senator John Benoit.

“It was a shock. Less than a month ago I had no idea of any kind of serious health condition that would lead to a resignation,” Sen. Benoit, (R) 37th Senate District, told KESQ from his Sacramento office.

Wilson recommended Senator Benoit in his resignation letter to the board of supervisors. Governor Schwarzenegger will decide the replacement.

If Benoit is chosen, the move will likely shake up Sacramento. Lawmakers will hold a special election to decide his replacement. People have already approached the senator about the opening, including Assemblyman Brian Nestande.

But if Nestande is chosen, who will take his place? There’s no telling when the Governor will appoint a replacement but the process usually takestwo tofour months. Senator Benoit hoped to run for Wilson’s seat in 2014 after his second term on the State Senate. Now his chance could come much sooner than expected.

“There’s a real sense you can actually get something done. All politics is local and local politics is where the rubber meets the road. I believe I have the opportunity here to make a serious impact and I’m looking forward to that challenge should it be presented,” says Sen. Benoit.

Benoit first met the former supervisortwo decades ago while Wilson served on the Palm Desert City Council. He learned how to be a public servant by Wilson’s example.

“He was a guy I could go to and I know I would get the straight scoop. And his word was golden. And I often thought this is the kind of public servant and leader I would like to emulate if I ever had the opportunity to serve in that kinda capacity,” says Sen. Benoit.

Now he might not only have the chance to serve like Wilson but also serve in the district Wilson helped shape for over a decade.