The logic of voting for Ted Stevens

Some people are wondering if Alaskans are insane for voting for a convicted felon for Senate. Well, I just heard an interesting theory on that. Many Republicans may have decided that, while they know Stevens is a crook and should (and will) be bounced, they don't want Begich, his opponent, to take advantage of Stevens' misfortune. They also know that if (and when) Stevens is kicked out, a special election will be held to replace him. Therefore, if Republicans want a "fair" election, the best choice is to vote for the crook and wait for that special election.