Article snippet: John Conyers' resignation from the U.S. House amid sexual harassment allegations unlocks the seat he has held for more than a half-century — and sets off a free-for-all race to replace him with at least three potential legacy candidates, including two relatives of Conyers and a son of a prominent former mayor. Conyers, had faced growing calls to resign from Democratic leaders and colleagues as he has been accused by one woman after another, vehemently denies he groped or harassed women who worked for him. As the 88-year-old civil rights leader walks away, he is also seeking to preserve his legacy, having endorsed his son, political neophyte John Conyers III, to succeed him. A grand-nephew of Conyers, Michigan state Sen. Ian Conyers, also plans to run. Other names in the mix of possible candidates include Coleman Young II, son of Detroit's first black mayor, Coleman Young; Wayne County Sheriff Benny Napoleon; and former state Reps. Rashida Tlaib and Shanelle Jackson. Given that Conyers' heavily Democratic district has changed over the years to incorporate suburbs, the race also could draw Westland Mayor William Wild and state Sen. David Knezek, who represents Dearborn Heights, part of Detroit, and surrounding communities. Lansing-area Democratic political consultant Joe DiSano said Conyers' "retirement" — as the longtime lawmaker termed it — happened so abruptly, it has freed up "20-30 years of pent-up ambition." It also could bring an end to the political stab... Link to the full article to read more