Judy Baar Topinka died Wednesday after complications from a stroke. (WJBC file photo)

By The Associated Press

CHICAGO – Constitutional experts say Illinois is in an unprecedented situation as it determines how to replace Illinois Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka.  

University of Illinois Springfield Professor Charlie Wheeler says Illinois hasn't had such a situation in nearly 150 years.  

The state Constitution gives the governor authority to appoint a successor if a constitutional office like comptroller becomes vacant. But Gov. Pat Quinn leaves office in January and there's a question whether he can make a permanent appointment.  

Topinka won another four-year term last month.  

Former state Sen. Richard Winkel says state statute suggests Gov.-elect Bruce Rauner will likely be tasked with appointing a new comptroller to a full term in 2015.  

Winkel says Rauner could act as soon as he's sworn into office Jan. 12.  

Topinka died Wednesday at age 70.  

Quinn: Succession talk should be postponed

Gov. Pat Quinn says any discussion over replacing Illinois Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka should be postponed as the public mourns her.
 
Quinn, a Democrat, told reporters that Topinka was a "great public servant" and a "force of nature" who put people first.
 
By state law, Quinn can appoint a successor if a constitutional office like comptroller becomes vacant. But Quinn leaves office next month and there's a question whether he can make a permanent appointment.
 
Topinka was to begin a new four-year term next month. She won re-election in November.
 
A spokesman for Republican Gov.-elect Bruce Rauner also says it's too early to talk about succession plans.
 
Quinn says his decision will be guided by the state Constitution, constitutional debates and court cases.