Convicted legislator ready to resign; sentencing set

PIERRE, S.D. -- Whether they loved him or hated him -- and few seemed neutral -- South Dakotans will notice when Rep. Bill Janklow leaves the political stage he has dominated for nearly three decades. Janklow's resignation from Congress takes effect today, six weeks after the former four-term Republican governor was convicted of manslaughter, speeding and running a stop sign in an Aug. 16 accident that killed a motorcyclist. On Thursday, Janklow, 64, will be sentenced and could get a maximum of just over 11 years in prison. At least nine Republicans are competing for the party's endorsement to run in a June 1 election to serve the rest of Janklow's term. The House seat will remain open in the meantime.