U.S. Sen.-elect John Kennedy says he'll resign as Louisiana state treasurer on Jan. 3, the same day he's sworn in to his new elected office in Washington.

A special election to fill the open treasurer's seat will be held in October.

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Kennedy said Thursday he's working his final weeks as treasurer, rather than leaving early, because he still has work to do in the position. He also preferred the special election to be held on the October ballot, rather than an earlier March ballot.

Kennedy says the later election date will give people time to consider running, to launch a full campaign and to tell Louisiana voters their ideas for the office.

After Kennedy's resignation, his top assistant Ron Henson will lead the office until a treasurer is elected.