The law allowing the Governor of AK to appoint long-term replacements to the US Senate was changed after AK Governor Frank Murkowski appointed his daughter to finish his term as US Senator, from which he resigned to assume the governorship. This action of his was one of the decisive factors in his primary defeat for the Republican gubernatorial nomination that Palin won.

There now must be a timely special election to elect a new Senator. Someone appointed by the Governor is allowed to serve only until the special election.

Palin could run for the Senate seat as a sitting governor, though.

Also, if Stevens's conviction is upheld, his Senate seat will be available. He might resign, but if he doesn't the Senate will expel him.