Berkley Senate bid continues despite appointment

LAS VEGAS (AP) - Nevada Democratic Congresswoman Shelley Berkley is charging ahead in her bid for a U.S. Senate seat, even as her Republican rival prepares to take the post in an unprecedented appointment.

Berkley said Thursday that Nevada voters have a clear choice between her and Dean Heller in the 2012 election.

She says Gov. Brian Sandoval's decision to appoint Congressman Heller to Sen. John Ensign's seat does not give Heller a significant advantage heading into next year's race.

Berkley says she will continue to focus on Heller's conservative voting record.

Meanwhile, Heller's move to the Senate will require Nevada to host its first special election for a House seat.

Officials are reviewing state election law, leaving a field of candidates unsure about whether they will make the ballot.