[cnn-photo-caption image= http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2009/images/08/29/art.kennedyiii.gi.jpg caption="Sen. Ted Kennedy's 11-year-old grandson announced his candidacy for Senate in 2044."]
(CNN) - For the first time in nearly six decades, it seems likely a Kennedy won't be either representing Massachusetts in the U.S. Senate, or seeking the office. But one member of the legendary political family is already laying plans to reclaim the seat.
Long-term plans.
He doesn't reside in the state – and won't be constitutionally eligible to run for the office for another 19 years – but on Friday, Sen. Ted Kennedy's 11-year-old grandson announced his candidacy for Senate in 2044.
"I plan to become the senator of Massachusetts when I turn 45," Edward Kennedy III confidently told New England Cable News.
Kennedy's grandfather represented the state in the Senate for 47 years. His great-uncle, President John F. Kennedy, served as senator from Massachusetts from 1953 until he won the White House in 1960.
The younger Kennedy also reflected Friday on the loss of his grandfather. "We should be happy for him that he is with his brothers and sisters in heaven, not sad because he's not with us," he said. "Because when we go to heaven, we'll be with him and it will be one big happy family."
Sen. Ted Kennedy's son, Rep. Patrick Kennedy of Rhode Island, is the only member of the family currently serving in Congress.
You go, son!
We'll be behind you all the way!
Edward Kennedy III, for Senator NOW. Even an 11 year old knows that Health Care Reform is important. Unfortunately that fight may still be raging by the time he runs for office
This isn't news, but amusing none the less. How is his family history supposed to guarantee that voters 35 years down the road care about the Kennedy family or want to vote for him?
Why not ? Republicans: A life without the Kennedy's ? Do ya think ? Not !
Good for you kid – shoot for the stars! I think you will probably be a great Senator!
Star them early. Nothing like getting a head start on living off a famous bootlegging, Nazi sympathizing name. Well, if he decides not to be president, it will save him some money. He won't have to buy Illinois or West Virginia.
of course he would.
About time for some new blood
Little Ed....seek to do God's will in all things and this CAN happen...as you know....we will have a righteous leader in 45 years leading all nations...but there will be leaders assigned. Keep your life on the right path...remember the poor, the hungry, the lonley, the elderly, the sick in all you do...and you'll be blessed. This is just so sweet...a vision.
Well he'll get it, he's entitled, although why wait til he's 45? Make him senator now!
My, how sweeeeeeeet.
You think maybe someone in the family knows that you don't have to wait until 45 to become a senator? Is this the "education" family?
And of course the next senator will be a Kennedy. The family paid good money for that seat, and there will always be a Kennedy there.
Good. I see he's already developing that healthy sense of entitlement.
You go for it Edward Kennedy III....If I am still around in 19 years (I am 62 @ present time, and if the powers that be pass health care for all, I just might be) you will get my vote, hopefully you can live up to your grandfather's legacy.....tall shoes to fill!
This kid will do it. It's in his DNA, but in the meantime, enjoy being a kid.
Boy looks rather mature for his years...guys, I'm pretty sure you have the wrong photo up!
Good for him. It is great to listen to a kid's goals in life and he has one. I hope he makes it. That would certainly make his father proud of him and keep the Kennedy name in the senate.
Ted Kennedy was a powerful voice in the senate and there will never be another one. I would like to see one of Robert kennedy's sons take over the seat or campaign for it in a speciall election. That would be great to keep the Kennedy name alive. His wife is not interested in being in politics.
i'd be surprised if Patrick didn't try to seat him next week.