Sandoval to announce Ensign replacement before May 3

Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval (R) today announced that he would announce a replacement for Sen. John Ensign (R) before May 3, which is the day when Ensign's resignation effectively takes place.

“Pursuant to the relevant law, I expect to announce an appointment before the resignation effective date of May 3," Sandoval said in a statement.

While Sandoval is expected to appoint GOP Congressman Dean Heller -- who is already running for Ensign's seat in 2012 -- the governor said such speculation is "premature."

"I take very seriously the importance of this appointment, so to speculate on potential candidates for appointment before then would be premature.”