CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Seven West Virginians have so far filed to run in this year's court-ordered special election for governor.

The Republican field as of Wednesday featured former Secretary of State Betty Ireland, Putnam County prosecutor Mark Sorsaia and Delegate Patrick Lane of Kanawha County.

House Speaker Rick Thompson, Secretary of State Natalie Tennant and acting governor Earl Ray Tomblin are the Democrats so far.

Tomblin has had that role as Senate president under the state constitution, after Joe Manchin resigned Nov. 15 to join the U.S. Senate.

Jesse Johnson is a candidate for the Mountain Party, which has ballot status in the state.

Lawmakers are debating a calendar for the election that would include a primary for nominating candidates.