Who succeeded Eugene Talmadge after his death before inauguration?

The correct answer is Melvin Thompson because he was the Lieutenant Governor at the time of Eugene Talmadge's death in December 1946. After Talmadge passed away, Thompson became the Acting Governor of Georgia in order to maintain stability in the state's government until a decision could be reached about the succession. This situation became complicated due to political disputes regarding Talmadge's election and his supposed heirs.

Thompson's ascension was crucial because the state was in disarray over the disputed election and the legitimacy of Talmadge's win. He played a significant role in navigating through the legal chaos and ensuring that the state government continued to function. Thompson eventually served as Governor until a subsequent election could be arranged, highlighting the importance of adhering to the line of succession in government.

The other names associated with the question had roles in Georgia politics, but they do not fit the specific context of the immediate succession following Talmadge's death. Ellis Arnall, for instance, had previously served as Governor but was not in that role at the time. Herman Talmadge, Eugene's son, was later involved in a political controversy around this time, but was not the one who stepped in right after Eugene's death. Robert Toombs