AUSTIN, Texas — Gov. Rick Perry has set a special election for Dec. 14 to fill the House seat left vacant by the death of Rep. Edmund Kuempel.

Perry's office announced the decision Tuesday.

Candidates have until close of business Monday to file applications with the secretary of state.

The district, which includes Gonzales, Guadalupe and Wilson counties, was represented by Kuempel until his death last week. Kuempel, who was 67, had a heart attack.

The early voting period begins Nov. 29 and ends Dec. 10.