December 23, 2008
Posted: 09:00 AM ET

From
Caroline Kennedy looked on as her uncle, Sen. Ted Kennedy, made an appearance at the Democratic convention in August of this year.
Caroline Kennedy looked on as her uncle, Sen. Ted Kennedy, made an appearance at the Democratic convention in August of this year.

(CNN) — A new poll suggests New Yorkers are split on whether Caroline Kennedy is qualified to be a U.S. Senator — but they still expect their state's governor will name her to replace Hillary Clinton when the secretary of state-designate steps down from her Senate seat.

Forty percent of those questioned in a Quinnipiac University survey released today say that Kennedy is qualified to serve as a senator, with 41 percent saying no. The 51-year-old daughter of President John F. Kennedy is one of a dozen or so hoping to fill the seat being vacated by Clinton when she leaves to take her post in President-elect Barack Obama's administration.

But Kennedy is drawing more scrutiny than the other Senate hopefuls because she's a member of one of the country's most famous political families, because she's never run for office, and because not much is well known about where she stands on crucial political issues and priorities.

The poll also indicates that by a 48 percent to 25 percent margin, New Yorkers think Gov. David Paterson will name Kennedy to the seat. Kennedy and her allies have launched a strong lobbying effort to persuade Paterson that she's qualified to serve in the U.S. Senate.

Asked their choice, 33 percent of those polled say Paterson should name Kennedy, with 29 percent backing New York State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo, the son of former New York Gov. Mario Cuomo. Another four percent support congresswoman Kirsten Gillibrand. Twenty-four percent want someone else and 10 percent are undecided.

Whomever Paterson names to the seat will have to run in a special election in November 2010 — and if they win that contest, will have to run again in 2012 when Clinton's current senate term ends.

The Quinnipiac University poll was conducted December 17-21, with 834 registered New York State voters questioned by telephone. The survey's sampling error is plus or minus 3.4 percentage points.

Filed under: Caroline Kennedy • Polls


Lu   December 23rd, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Paterson would be NUTS not to select her.

Haven't the Democrat leaders learnt anything yet about the importance of great strategy? If not, let's remind them who the new President is; Obama and not Clinton or McCain.

The Republicans are shaking in their boots, praying Caroline won't be chosen.

Mike, Syracuse NY   December 23rd, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Call her Caroline Smith and see how her qualifications stack up against the other choices like Cuomo. She'd rank at the bottom.

Baze   December 23rd, 2008 1:56 pm ET

Oh heck, just make her a Senator. There are tons of Congressmen that don't do jack, so why not??

Libertarian   December 23rd, 2008 1:52 pm ET

Whomever gets appointed should have at the very least put their name on the ballot and have run for office at least once in their life. And since Ms. Kennedy has not done that she should not get this appointment.

Libertarian   December 23rd, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Whoever the appoint is there should be one big qualification. They should have had to run and hold at least one elected office.

Libertarian   December 23rd, 2008 1:49 pm ET

I have nothing against Caroline Kennedy personally. But as for her getting appointed I can not disagree more. I don't care which part somoeone is from, when it comes to elected office, that person should have had to put her name on a ballot some where and actually run for something before we appoint them.

For all of you comparing her to Clinton that is false, since she actually went and put her name on the ballot and ran for the office and the people of New York elected her. But for your first position as an elected official should not come as an appointment. I am sorry but that is not the way things should work. You should have to prove yourself somewhere along the line before you should get such an appointment.

So no she should not get this position. It is that simple people.

Tom, Ga   December 23rd, 2008 1:48 pm ET

NY is full of idiots so it really doesn't matter which one replaces the old one.

Rick   December 23rd, 2008 1:38 pm ET

She's an idiot.

Jackie in Dallas   December 23rd, 2008 1:37 pm ET

Caroline Kennedy Schlossberg spent much of the last years raising a family, raising millions of dollars for education in New York, and staying low key while her family was young. Her family is grown and she, as a lawyer and Constitutional scholar (with a number of books to her name) has decided to dip her toe in the political waters. Taking over the rest of Senator Clinton's term is no big deal — often, spouses of members of Congress are appointed to complete terms. Some go on to become active in politics, running for office as Elizabeth Dole did, some do not. Why not actually let her try? Some of the others are no more qualified than her — Fran Dressler, for instance is even less qualified.

As for those who question Caroline's intelligence, well, I don't know how many of you are holders of a law degree from Columbia University and to write or co-write two books on the Bill of Rights and the Constitution, and four other books. I don't think she lacks smarts!

Empty suit, empty promises   December 23rd, 2008 1:27 pm ET

Chuck, "Palin pals around with drug addicts"?

Are you really that dumb? Don't uh, uh, uh, uh bothers as I can guess and probably figure that you uh, uh, uh voted for someone that actually DID DRUGS and his name is uh, uh, Obama.

Sorry to let facts get in the way.

Caroline has gone from beloved from ALL circles to hated in many just because she feels it is her birthright to be Senator or maybe because she was all in for Obama.

You jokesters that still hammer Palin are funny as hell, we had someone who paid every dime for college, ran her own business, was elected Mayor and Governo, wentr against her OWN party, STUFF THAT WE WISH OUR POLITICIANS did as a resume builder and yet she is hammered because she talks funny and doesn't believe in murdering babies as a choice.

Then on the other hand you have this spoon fed, never worked a day in her life roll over one morning and she wants to be a Senator and she is the greatest thing since the chosen one………

She won't answer questions from the press or disclose her finances, but gosh, she is so great and she loves Obambi, gosh, she is swell.

Bahhhh, sheep, bahhhh.

tess   December 23rd, 2008 1:21 pm ET

let me get this straight – hillary, married to a president, failed at the job he gave her with health care, botched whitewater, defended adultry in her husband's affair, never lived in new york and had to go find a house then borrow money from dem operative to buy it to be eligible to run for senate seat, served one term all the while planning to run for president! now here comes caroline kennedy who has more experience with philanthropy, good works, fund raising for democratic causes and is actually a new yorker! what am i missing from the hillary group that makes caroline less qualified to run for her seat? o yes – the kennedys back obama!!! that surely makes her unworthy of the seat – get over it clintonistas!!!

a southern bell.   December 23rd, 2008 1:19 pm ET

I REMEMBER WHOSE DAUGHTER SHE IS.

I REMEMBER WHOSE NIECE SHE IS. AND

IF BOTH OF THEM WERE ALIVE, THEY

WOULD TELL YOU THAT IF SHE LOVED THIS

NATION, THIS DEMOCRACY & THEIR DREAMS FOR

US, SHE WOULD HAVE BOTHERED TO VOTE. SHE WOULD

HAVE ROLLED UP HER SLEEVES AS THEY DID. THEY BOTH

WERE AWARE THAT THEIR LIVES WERE IN GREAT PERIL,

BUT HEY GOT UP & SPOKE. SHE CAN'T GET UP TO VOTE.

IN THE NATION OF JOHN & BOBBY, YOU EARN IT !!!!

Jeff in Illinois   December 23rd, 2008 1:18 pm ET

I honestly don't know whether she would make a good Senator or not, but what I do know is, I do NOT trust Gov. Patterson.

He is (maybe already did), pushing through a tax increase on regular soda, but not diet. That means, the state would be discouraging people from drinking pop with sugar in it, and encouraging pop with a dangerous, cancer-causing, obesity-increasing (through insulin fluctuation), neurotoxin profiting pharmeceutical companies.

For years, FDA scientists warned about Aspartame, until Searle, Inc. CEO Donald Rumsfeld took things into his own, slimy, connected hands, and pushed through FDA approval.

Maybe the Governor doesn't know, but something tells me Big Pharma is trying to push their favorite Death-Bringer down the throats of New Yorkers.

Jen   December 23rd, 2008 1:16 pm ET

I hope she makes it regardless!!!

AJ   December 23rd, 2008 1:13 pm ET

I think the wrong Kennedy went down in that plane…

UNEDUCATED AMERICA   December 23rd, 2008 1:11 pm ET

the best Kennedy's were shot- the rest of them were bought…

UNEDUCATED AMERICA   December 23rd, 2008 1:10 pm ET

career politians and nepotism in gov't are destroying this country.

FreeNLovIt   December 23rd, 2008 12:53 pm ET

Again, if W qualifies to be Prez, she qualifies to be anything she wants to be. Stand, smile, wave and disappear.

rohan   December 23rd, 2008 12:52 pm ET

With the mayor extending his term and now C. Kennedy. Is NY suffering from a Brain Drain?

sg   December 23rd, 2008 12:51 pm ET

I'm so glad I left NY in 2000. It's nothing but a Democrat controlled sewer.

Thomas   December 23rd, 2008 12:42 pm ET

Wow…people are being pretty harsh to a woman who didn't ask to be born into wealth and the spotlight but has nevertheless worked hard to achieve things for herself and others and has spent most of her adult life working for charities and progams to enrich other people's lives.

With that said, I would love to see Patterson pick Fran Drescher.

With it looking more and more like Al Franken might win his seat, he is going to need a female counterpart in the senate.

Boston Irish   December 23rd, 2008 12:41 pm ET

I find it very strange that for the first time, Caroline Kennedy came out in support of a candidate and actively campaigned for him. After winning the election, he is ready to appoint a senator from New York to be SOS, and lo and behold Ms. Caroline Kennedy wants the job. Could this possibly be the reason she supported Obama? I'm sure she has supported other presidential candidates, but never publicly like she has this year. Me thinks perhaps she helped convince Obama that Hilary would make the "perfect" SOS. Doesn't feel like getting her hands dirty and actually running for the seat, but from what I can see, she is not above using her last name to try to get the job. Personally, I wouldn't think she would be too proud of the name Kennedy since her Uncle Teddy has not exactly been a good example.

Caroline, please just go away   December 23rd, 2008 12:41 pm ET

I had never heard of Caroline Kennedy until she endorsed Obama in the primaries, and as a strong Clinton supporter it was incredibly annoying that the media made such a big deal out of it. Then I didn't hear anything about her until she started asking for Clinton's senate seat. What a bunch of bull. This would be the most ridiculous appointment since the democratic leadership and the media appointed Obama the democratic nominee.

Shame on the democratic leadership for not being able to handle its party's strongest candidate as its nominee. They just wanted the biggest pushover and wuss so they could play them like a puppet… that's why they screwed Hillary over in so many ways just to get Obama elected. Michigan and Florida… the caucus fraud… ganging up on superdelegates to go for Obama… unbelievable.

Shame on the media too, but that one is even more obvious. Even in the general election.

Caroline Kennedy is another Obama. Gov. Paterson, as a Hillary supporter during the primaries, please do not fall for hype like your party did! Go with Cuomo, go with anyone but this woman… even Drescher has done more than this joke.

chuck   December 23rd, 2008 12:37 pm ET

CAROLINE KENNEDY COMES FROM A GOOD STOCK AND IS A SURE BET UNLIKE SARAH PALIN WHO PALS AROUND WITH DRUG ADDICTS.

Buffalo   December 23rd, 2008 12:36 pm ET

Look at all the "experience" in Congress and where it got us. A "housewife" who understands you cannot go to the tap when money is short may be just what we need.

a southern bell.   December 23rd, 2008 12:31 pm ET

I AM A WOMAN & I QUALIFY A HECK OF

A LOT MORE THAN MS. KENNEDY. I

HAVE VOTED EVERY SINGLE TIME.

WOMEN HAVE TO GET OFF THE "I AM A WOMEN",

& THEREFORE I QUALIFY. ISN'T THAT WHAT WE HATED ABOUT

"THE OLD BOY NETWORK". WE NEED TO QUALIFY, PERIOD !!!!

nom deplume   December 23rd, 2008 12:30 pm ET

She is clearly up to the task of being the Jr. Senator from NY.

I mean, its not like its a hard job or anything. Here is what she has do do: 1. Listen to what Obama/Reid/Pelosi/Uncle Ted tell her to do. 2. Vote.

nom deplume   December 23rd, 2008 12:28 pm ET

Laverne,

If NY puts her in, she isn't leaving except by her own choice or in a box. This country has a history of sending ridiculous, even embarrasing people back to the Senate. Couple that with NYer's obvious taste for celebrity and you have someone that NYers wouldn't vote out if she were selling nuclear secrets to Iran.

I used to do a lot of work for Kennedys (back when I was a democrat) and people get all starry-eyed around them. Some scarily so. Other people still call Ted "president kennedy" in a Freudian slip kind of way. So I feel quite comfortable saying that she won't ever be voted out once she is installed.

Brenna   December 23rd, 2008 12:25 pm ET

I think her numbers can only go up. Right now, for better or worst, she isn't trying to convince the voters but just voter, Gov. David Paterson.

David Goldman   December 23rd, 2008 12:24 pm ET

WE HAVE HAD IT WITH IRRESPONSIBLE ARROGANT

DYNASTY TYPES. WOMAN DOESN'T BOTHER TO VOTE

HERSELF BUT WANTS TO BE A SENATOR. DEMOCRAT OR

REPUBLICAN, THAT IS BUSH ARROGANCE. I HAVEN'T SERVED

YOU. I HAVE DONE NOTHING BUT LET ME LEAD YOU ??????

naqib   December 23rd, 2008 12:23 pm ET

Oh what harm could it do…

Leave rebels to die at the Bay of Pigs
Get played by Russia to give up all our missiles in Europe
Attack the unions
Start the Vietnam War
Get tossed from Harvard for cheating
Leave women in rivers while we sober up
Work the system to defend relatives behavior in hot tubs
Monroe & Mansfield

Then again?

Love this world?   December 23rd, 2008 12:23 pm ET

Who was it that said,"he who loves this world or anything in it does not love me?

Johnnyboy   December 23rd, 2008 12:20 pm ET

Joseph Adewole said "Honour should be given to those that ONLY deserve to be honoured; This young woman deserve to have NO opposition at all. Americans should remember what her father did for America and appreciate it.
One thing come to my mind always about JFK. when he said: "What so ever l did remain for or against me; l wished l could work for 26 hours a day before l am gone; if it killing yourself in the services of your country, never complain". He died in the services of his country."

Mr. Adewole:

I don't live in New York so I don't really care if Caroline Kennedy is chosed as the replacement for Clinton. However, her father's sacrifice should have no bearing on the selection process nor how much opposition she does, or does not, face. My dad was a great guy , bravely served our country during a time of war and was a brilliant executive. However, that doesn't make me qualified for anything. I am really tired of hearing the Kennedy family idolized like this. Yes, her father gave his life serving the country. But he wasn't a saint, nor were/are his brothers. I struggle to understand what his death, over 45 years ago, has to do with whether Caroline Kennedy should be a Senator. Quit idolizing the Kennedy family. It's tiresome.

Matt   December 23rd, 2008 12:19 pm ET

Yep, race and gender are off limits for why we should or shouldn't vote for someone, so let's resort to last names!

Dr.Mimi De La Cruz   December 23rd, 2008 12:18 pm ET

CAROLINE WANTS TO BE AT THE BALL

BUT COULDN'T GET OUT OF BED TO VOTE.

ANY CITIZEN THAT VOTED QUALIFIES MORE THAN SHE DOES.

NEW, NEW YORKER.   December 23rd, 2008 12:13 pm ET

SHE WANTS TO BE PART OF THE DREAM

SHE COULDN'T BOTHER TO VOTE FOR.

WOMAN IS INSULTING EVERY VOTER IN

N.Y. THAT GETS OUT IN THE COLD TO VOTE.

Dr.Mimi De La Cruz   December 23rd, 2008 12:11 pm ET

I AM NOT SPLIT !!!

A SENATOR THAT DOESN'T BELIEVE SHE SHOULD

VOTE DOES NOTHING FOR ME. THAT DISQUALIFIES

HER IF NOTHING ELSE DOES. 1000S MORE QUALIFIED.

Jerry Centralia, Illinois   December 23rd, 2008 12:09 pm ET

Her name is Kennedy. She is well enough connected to do some good. She will gain valuable experience and be the first lady president and I will vote for her.

Sat   December 23rd, 2008 12:09 pm ET

I think the time is right for Caroline Kennedy. She is certainly not the regular politician and that makes her more appealing to people like myself who see her in a supporting role to President Elect Obama. In the senate she will be able to interpret his way of thinking and bring that perspective along with her own savvy to the job. As a New Yorker, i look forward to her selection knowing that she has no hidden agenda and will represent the interest of the people of New York in a calm, efficient and professional manner. For those of you against her getting the job, be reminded that at this time in our history, we do not need another politician, we need people who care and understand what needs to be done to improve our economy and our lives.

J UAN CARLOS   December 23rd, 2008 12:03 pm ET

CAROLINE,,,,,,,,,,,,,,MONARCHIES,,,,,,,,,EXIST,,,,,,,,,,,,,,IN,,,,,,,,,,,,,THE,,,,,,,,,,

UNITED,,,,,,,,,,,KINGDOM,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,AND,,,,,,,,,,,,,,IN,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,THE,,,,,,,,NEW,,,,,,,

YORK,,,,,,,,,,,DEMOCRATIC,,,,,,,,,,,,PARTY

Dave   December 23rd, 2008 11:59 am ET

This New Yorker is not split. She has no business being crowned senator. People like to say Hillary had no experience…..please! She won a freaking election unlike this lady who just wants it handed to her since she is probably afraid of losing an election.

Vince   December 23rd, 2008 11:59 am ET

The only qualification for the house of Lords is the right birth.

Since we have turned the Senate into the house of Lords Hillary should think twice before giving up her senate seat. She should keep it for Chelsea.

BROOKLYN   December 23rd, 2008 11:56 am ET

No… We are not split. Every single person that I have spoken with in my great state has said the same thing… With all due respect to the kennedy name, Caroline has no experience what so ever, NONE. We need knowledge right now, not a name.

And… As you could plainly see by the other posts here… The rest of the Nation feels the same way, so CNN, where did you get this "poll" from?

Brian G, Sugar Land, TX   December 23rd, 2008 11:48 am ET

When I first read the headline I thought it said:
"New Yorkers SPIT on Caroline Kennedy."

It actually would have made a better story…

FAYE MOGHTADER   December 23rd, 2008 11:41 am ET

I THINK SHE MAKES A GREAT SENATOR.MANY OF US WOMEN HER AGE DEVOTED OUR EARLY YEARS TO RAISING OUR CHILDREN NOW IS HER TIME,SHE HAS ALL THE QUALIFICATION TO BE A SENATOR.SHE HAS DONE SO MUCH FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION,AND WE SURE CAN USE A LOT OF HELP.

kelly WI   December 23rd, 2008 11:39 am ET

Even if she is appointed now she will have to run in 2010 if she still wants the job. I expect she'll be replacing a Kennedy when Teddy has to quit. There are a few other Kennedys in congress already.
Next appointment will be Chelsea. ha.
The standards and qualifications are quite low. As long as you are rich and can bring in lots of money campainging you have it made.

Scott   December 23rd, 2008 11:36 am ET

Yep…just what we need…another corrupt Kennedy…

rodlang   December 23rd, 2008 11:34 am ET

Why does the media call her Caroline Kennedy and not Caroline Schlossberg. The answer is simple. If she used her married name, she would never be considered for the Senate. It's all based on the Kennedy name and "Princess" Caroline.

PL   December 23rd, 2008 11:29 am ET

I think it's safe to say that Caroline received more experience around the dinner table than, the entire U.S. Congress currently has. I find it funny that people come out of nowhere and run for public office and we will say this lady isn't qualified.

Joseph Adewole   December 23rd, 2008 11:25 am ET

Honour should be given to those that ONLY deserve to be honoured; This young woman deserve to have NO opposition at all. Americans should remember what her father did for America and appreciate it.
One thing come to my mind always about JFK. when he said: "What so ever l did remain for or against me; l wished l could work for 26 hours a day before l am gone; if it killing yourself in the services of your country, never complain".
He died in the services of his country.

Hold UP!!   December 23rd, 2008 11:20 am ET

CAROLINE is Qualified….and she is not dumb like Bush ……Daddy Bush encouraged his BOY to Run For President ….. Dick owe me a Favor he will HELP you ……..Speaking of experience What A Big Mess we are in ………..Bush was a MURDERING GOV of TX and a War Monger as PRES

FFS !   December 23rd, 2008 11:19 am ET

Ok let me give you the low down; She will get appointed to the seat, win another term, once she gets to 2016 she will run for President. Like Obama knowing nothing about being president she will be elected because of popularity. Difference is her name will get her there, KENNEDY. She will finally done what has eluded her other family members since her fathers death, become president. She will botch it, ruin the country, and we will have to get bailed out by Canada, or Mexico,. . . . . . . .the end.

Kennedy   December 23rd, 2008 11:17 am ET

TO: SOMEONE PLEASE THROW ANOTHER PAIR OF SHOES @ GW!!!

I will throw them at you. Your joke that Caroline Kennedy is more quolified than HRC and Cuomo combined is the funnuest thing I heard this year. You got "commedy central" !!

J.P.   December 23rd, 2008 11:16 am ET

No more Bush!
No more Clinton!
And certainly, NO MORE KENNEDYS!

demwit   December 23rd, 2008 11:15 am ET

NY expects a well connected Washington insider.., the individual peronality behind it is irrelevent.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   December 23rd, 2008 11:12 am ET

Caroline Kennedy is more qualified to be a senator than Sarah Palin is qualified to be governor. Caroline is an attorney and knows constitutional law and is politically qualified. Can't say the same for Palin and the Repubs had the nerve to have her run as VP which proved to be a total disaster. The Republicans are running scared of Caroline Kennedy and that's all the more reason she should be senator.

Charles L. Shaw, Liverpool, NY   December 23rd, 2008 11:11 am ET

I have no issue with Ms. Kennedy's qualifications for Senator.
My issue is who she will represent? Do we need another ultra elite snob going to Congress, who has never had the privilege (That 95 % of the American Citizen has experienced in their lifetime) of being unemployed, homeless, hungry, and hopeless.
The Citizens of NYS need a person who truly knows what it is like to try and survive in a state where nearly 60 % of our gross incomes goes to taxes, and job security has been lost.
We need a senator who will serve us, not the other way around.

Soccer Nana   December 23rd, 2008 11:10 am ET

Kristy wrote: ". . . . . . . It looks like quid pro quo for Caroline Kennedy to be given the seat when she endorsed Obama. . . . . . . "

When Caroline Kennedy endorsed Obama for president, there was no way anyone knew he would be the winner; no one knew Obama would choose Hilliary Clinton to be the Secretar of State after he won. Your comment is as untrue as you are significant.

@rachel, you can vote when and if you want to. Could be she didn't like any of the candidates.

The Kennedy's aren't going anywhere; get used to it.

Caroline is just as qualified as the others on the "short list" to replace Hillary.

Stop hating her simply because she is a Kennedy.

Escape from N.Y   December 23rd, 2008 11:09 am ET

Lets just build a fence around it and not let them out.

ran   December 23rd, 2008 11:08 am ET

It is simple she would be a real peoples' senator. Why do we always have to over analyze everything. She has shown over the years she cares about the people of New York and all over the world. If she proves not to be any good then vote her out in 2 yrs. I think she will be as good if not better then her Uncle Ted in representing the people. Give her the chance to prove it. If we gave Bush 8 yrs we can at least give her 2 yrs.

Illinois 2   December 23rd, 2008 11:05 am ET

Why wpould yhe Gov. of New York hand over such a powerful position to anyone that has not proven to have been through the process of a campaign tp prove their worth or not to the voters, especially just because of who they are and not if they are in fact qualified for such an important position. The votes cast by members of congress affect all of the country, not just New York, or for that matter the Illinois senate seat of Obama.

Disappointed   December 23rd, 2008 11:01 am ET

Got to agree with AJ. ("[Kennedy] has done nothing in her life to merit being appointed to the Senate but believes she is qualified because she is a Kennedy.") One can argue whether Hillary Clinton had prior experience, but at least she took her "get to know you" tour and faced the voters. Carolyn Kennedy's only claim on the office seems to be that she wants it and that it should be hers because she wants it. I am as liberal a Democrat as they come, but I see no reason that Gov. Patterson should appoint her when there are plenty of good candidates who have put in their time and faced the voters.

Polly   December 23rd, 2008 10:58 am ET

What does she have to offer and what are her intentions? I think she just wants to join the "party." Can we get serious? God, these people are making me sick.

MeH82   December 23rd, 2008 10:50 am ET

If Her Last Name was not Kennedy would she be a legitimate canidate for that Senate Seat? If Ms. Kennedy wants to be in the Senate Let her Run for the Seat in the next election… But for the Govenor to appointe her just for her name is Folly…

Debby   December 23rd, 2008 10:50 am ET

Let her run for the seat when it comes up instead of getting it handed to her.

therealist   December 23rd, 2008 10:48 am ET

Kennedy will win because no one can match her offer..

Hillary Clinton Supporter   December 23rd, 2008 10:46 am ET

Message to Caroline: I know Hillary Clinton. She is a friend of mine. You, ma'am, are no Hillary Clinton.

proud army and navy mom   December 23rd, 2008 10:43 am ET

Caroline Kennedy is a fine, intelligent, thoughtful human being who if appointed will do an excellent job as Senator.

Who cares if she maybe hasn't voted in every election, maybe she was disappointed with her choices. I can definitely understand that.

Because she has not voted   December 23rd, 2008 10:43 am ET

It does makes sense that she want to be appointed, but not be elected by the people. She does not believe election that's why she has not voted many of elections. We don't need someone who doesn't care our vote/voice. So, I don't care her sweet name.

She has such a great script to be the first female president.
Now, I really understand why she endorses Obama, but not Clinton.

zero qualifications   December 23rd, 2008 10:41 am ET

so your entitled because your name is kennedy??

Ruth   December 23rd, 2008 10:41 am ET

Caroline Kennedy is just as qualified to be senator as Hillary Clinton was when she became senator. So shut up about her not being qualified. Look at most senators and you will them NOT qualified.

Greg Pottstown, Pa.   December 23rd, 2008 10:36 am ET

8 years ago I started to work for my parents. I now run the company, but when I started I was a mail room clerk. I worked my way up working with %80 of our employees and in turn gaining the respect of those I worked with. Being the owners son I had to work three times as hard as anyone to get the same respect. I worked 55-60 hours a week. It paid off as I now have control of the company and have been increasing our profits. The point is that no mater what, if she dose not work her way up through the ranks many will never have any respect for her.

Steve   December 23rd, 2008 10:35 am ET

We learn today that she will not divulge her finances and submit to typical investigation. Now by law she does not have to do this. However in the interest of transparency and given the fact if appointed, May 15 of each year, these disclosures are required.

I guess a case of of " let them eat cake " mentality.

Chris Prial   December 23rd, 2008 10:33 am ET

I don't trust any Kennedy being elected– anyone else question Paterson's motives? Plus why should you make it a priority to elect an individual that is the same sex as the person who previously held the position?

JM   December 23rd, 2008 10:31 am ET

If Caroline wants the seat so bad, she should run for it in the 2010 election not trade on daddy's name and expect it to be handed to her. Atleast then people would respect her more.

gallagher   December 23rd, 2008 10:29 am ET

Caroline Kennedy meets the qualifications as established in the Constitution. She's also educated, dedicated, bright–I am sure she'd do a good job. She is far better prepared for this role than others who have held senate seats. I support her.

SOMEONE PLEASE THROW ANOTHER PAIR OF SHOES @ GW!!!   December 23rd, 2008 10:28 am ET

Nobody is ASKING the same questions about the qualification of Andrew Cuomo; even though he is the son of former New York Gov. Mario Cuomo and not much is well known about where he stands on crucial political issues and priorities….Not even the rightwing NUTS!

It's sexism when it's Hillary Clinton and Sarah Pain-Lin, but for Caroline Kennedy, because she is an Obama supporter and for being a Kennedy, it's cronyism and entitlement!

PUHLEASEEEEEEEEEEEE! Ms. Caroline Kennedy is waaaaaaaaaaaaay more than qualified to be the next senator from New York; more than Cuomo, Hillary combined.

She is not only stepping out to serve the people of New York during this most difficult and trying times; she has done so much for education and civil rights issues far more than anyone who is vying for the senate seat!

What's good for the goose is good for the gander!!!! –

Call Gov. David Paterson to elect Caroline Kennedy as senator from NY NOW!

Angie Mason   December 23rd, 2008 10:21 am ET

I think if Caroline Kennedy is anything like the rest of the Kennedys, you have nothing to worry about. She will fight with everything she has for the voters of New York. I wished we in Utah would have someone to fight for us instead of their own self interests.

Sharon, MN   December 23rd, 2008 10:20 am ET

I think the gov should pick someone else and let Caroline campaign for two years. If she's got the right stuff she'll win in 2010.

lovable liberal   December 23rd, 2008 10:19 am ET

I'm a big fan of Ted, but I don't believe that dynasties are good for democracy.

Dianne   December 23rd, 2008 10:16 am ET

Go Caroline! You'll make a wonderful Senator.

Funny to see so many in a "panic" since you've announced an interest. They all know you'd be unbeatable in a General Election.

JustBob   December 23rd, 2008 10:15 am ET

"New Yorkers are split on whether Caroline Kennedy is qualified to be a U.S. Senator"…Give her a break, we just elected a Senator without experience to the Presidency: Caroline in '12!

April   December 23rd, 2008 10:13 am ET

As great as she was for the Obama campaign, she should not "inherit" Hillary's seat. She should get the seat the old fashioned way, by running for it.

Phoenix   December 23rd, 2008 10:12 am ET

I love how we are showing our hypocrisy about name legacies. Our current president is a legacy baby if I've ever seen one. I'm sure the Clinton name will not hurt Chelsea wherever she is. The list goes on. I don't know anything about C. Kennedy, but I am sick of us harping about name recognition when that's what our country is built on. That's why I say as a black American, meritocracy is a bunch of bull.

A Canuck   December 23rd, 2008 10:11 am ET

Caroline Kennedy is intelligent, honest and has a good heart……there are times when that is sufficient. This is one of them,

Hypocracy has no bounds   December 23rd, 2008 10:11 am ET

Anyone who spoke against qualifications of Palin and supports her for this seat should have thier head examine.

rachel   December 23rd, 2008 10:03 am ET

hmm, she hasn't bothered to vote until recently why?

KJL   December 23rd, 2008 10:03 am ET

Governor Paterson won't be influenced by the Kennedy name. He will try to make the best choice, and the people can confirm or deny it in the next election.

Mari   December 23rd, 2008 10:01 am ET

Good grief….. Caroline Kennedy is the daughter of a slain president, and part of a family that has served our Nation for generations! They have lost three sons. I admire and respect them all.

However, Caroline Kennedy needs to start from the bottom up. IF she is serious about getting into Congress, then she should run for the City Council, then Congresswoman, then the Senate. Allowing the people of New York to choose whom they would like to serve them.

Mickie   December 23rd, 2008 10:01 am ET

Since I don't live in NY my vote or opinion would not count anyway. What I would like to know is what qualifications were required of other people elected to the senate? I know of some who never held public office (including Hillary) but that does not mean they were not qualified and did a good job. Just my opinion.

Laverne   December 23rd, 2008 10:00 am ET

I wouldn't mind Caroline being appointed for the short term to see what she's got. If she does not serve the people of NY well over the next 20 months, she probably would not win the re-election anyways. Maybe some will be pleasantly surprised!

Larry in Houston   December 23rd, 2008 9:59 am ET

I don't know, I still think she will be O.K. as a senator that took Hillary's seat…..But this is what bothers me : I've heard on the News that she has not Voted in YEARS !! Now what do you think of that ?

It sort of sends a message here…….If you didn't even "bother" to vote in the past, it means that you didn't care who was "in", or who was "out"……..and it's like saying that you don't about politics, so to speak……

So, NOW, she wants to be a senator ?? So, now this means : I am Finally "interested" in Politics, NOW ??

Something doesn't sound right, or smell right, with this…

Larry C.
Houston, Texas

TR   December 23rd, 2008 9:57 am ET

I think Ms. Kennedy is simply qualified and the press ought not be overly critical about her credentials… I'm pretty sure she'll make a good Senator and Hillary will be pleased to have her as successor…

EVERYMAN   December 23rd, 2008 9:57 am ET

What's next? Oprah for President?

NEL E BELL   December 23rd, 2008 9:55 am ET

I AM MARRIED TO A KENNEDY, HOWEVER, THE SIDE OF THE FAMILY THAT WERE NOT DOUBLE CROSSERS THEY WERE HONEST HORSE THIEVES AND THEY ADMITTED IT. ANYWAY, I LOVE JFK AS A TEENAGER AND MY HOPES FOR CAROLYN IS SHE STAYS ON THE SIDELINES WE DON'T NEED A CELEBRITY, RATHER WE IN NEW YORK DESERVE A HARD WORKING DYNAMIC PERSON THAT IS HONEST AND WILL ADVANCE OUR INTERESTS., SO CAROLYN PLEASE BE THE POWER BEHIND THE THRONE AND KEEP YOUR WONDERFUL FAMILY NOT TED'S OUT OF THE HOG TROFF.

Randy, San Francisco   December 23rd, 2008 9:54 am ET

Caroline needs to prove that she is not a Palin clone by answering tough questions from the news media. She must demonstrate that she is as smart and tough as Hillary. The Kennedy brand is nothing if you didn't inherit the political genes or temperament.

Kevin in Ohio   December 23rd, 2008 9:50 am ET

This is a no-brainer (sorry, Ted). She is simply not qualified, so, ere go, Patterson will select her.

Mike   December 23rd, 2008 9:49 am ET

Amazing that she is running a campaign to win a seat that will be appointed by the governor. She can't win a general election, but like a true Kennedy can recognize a fast way to power. The only Kennedy that earned his spot on his own was JFK, the rest are still catching a free ride on his coattails. Amazing if New Yorkers will be so gullible as to put pressure on the governor to appoint a neophite to office.

Kristy   December 23rd, 2008 9:49 am ET

I find it absurd, that when Hillary was running for office, the media kept saying that "We shouldn't have Legacy's". Too many Clinton's and Bushes. Hillary Clinton was involved in politics, even though she was the wife of Bill in office, and she actually got elected, wasn't given a senate seat because of her name. It looks like quid pro quo for Caroline Kennedy to be given the seat when she endorsed Obama. I do predict that Caroline Kennedy will get the senate seat, and I also predict that she will be the first female president in 8 years. The Kennedy's want thier legacy.

AJ   December 23rd, 2008 9:48 am ET

The sense of entitlement shown by Caroline Kennedy leaves me dumfounded. She has done nothing in her life to merit being appointed to the Senate but believes she is qualified because she is a Kennedy. Pathetic. I hope Patterson gives this seat to someone more deserving.

Ray Fisher   December 23rd, 2008 9:46 am ET

Caroline should reveal everything about herself in the interest of good government, if not, then don't accept the offer. America must stop these arrgant politicians from taking advantage. Just put up or shut up!!!

RinFL   December 23rd, 2008 9:41 am ET

Love or hate Hillary the one thing that no one can deny is that she is one sharp minded person. Not living in NY state I could really care less but I would think that there are better choices that could be made. If the people are looking for a shrewd political mind to represent them Ms. Kennedy is probably not the right choice.

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