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COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- Sen. Robert Ford is pleading with Lt. Gov. Glenn McConnell to run for re-election to regain his Senate seat.

Ford introduced a resolution Thursday allowing McConnell to retain his seniority. The Charleston Democrat says the Senate needs McConnell back in his seat, if not this year than next term.

McConnell gave up his powerful posts as president pro tempore and Judiciary Committee chairman when he was sworn in Tuesday. He also gave up 32 years of seniority.

The Charleston Republican reluctantly assumed the post after former Lt. Gov. Ken Ard resigned and pleaded guilty Friday to campaign fraud.

McConnell could run for his own seat. Filing for that special election opens March 30, the same day filing closes for November's general election. He said earlier this week he hasn't decided.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)