Kennedy opts out of Massachusetts Senate race
[cnn-photo-caption image= http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2009/images/09/07/art.joekennedy.gi.jpg caption="Joe Kennedy has decided not to enter the fight to succeed his uncle Ted Kennedy in the U.S. Senate."]
(CNN) — Joe Kennedy has decided not to enter the fight to succeed his uncle Ted Kennedy in the U.S. Senate.
"Given all that my uncle accomplished, it was only natural to consider getting back involved in public office, and I appreciate all the calls of support and friendship that have poured in," the former Democratic congressman said in a statement released Monday.
"My father called politics an honorable profession, and I have profound respect for those who choose to advance the causes of social and economic justice in elective office. After much consideration, I have decided that the best way for me to contribute to those causes is by continuing my work at Citizens Energy Corporation."
Massachusetts voters head to the polls in January to choose a successor for Ted Kennedy.
Frankly, it shows charactor, not to seek something based on your family name or money when your own efforts did not earn it. Right W? You betcha.
I would think that there will be at least one Kennedy running. The problem is that the AG of Massachusetts is a highly qualified person who has a lot of name recognition in the state without all the extraneous baggage the Kennedy name brings, I don't think there is a viable GOP threat, but whoever runs for the Democratic ticket should run scared just in case.
Joe has done well for his state and his country though his nonprofit. We are grateful to him for that. One does wonder though, why the new know-nothings feel the need to toss such vitriol at a man, a family, and a political party who have brought them social security, medicare, and the weekend.
Teddy Jr. isn't eligible. He lives in Connecticut. We in Connecticut are hoping he challenges for Lieberman's seat in 2012.
Too bad!! I think Joe would've been an excellent candidate with some prior political experience and the insight gained while being the nephew of one of the most influential politicians ever. Good Luck to you Joe in whatever path you choose.
It's too bad this is a holiday and most of you will have to wait for Tue to find out from Rush Limbougher, Sean Cannt'ty or the grape one to tell you what to say, or (do I dare say) Think
Please Joe-RECONSIDER! Not only does MA need you, the nation needs you in the Senate. I think my friend John Kerry would support you if you had a change of mind considering what is at stake with the Nation's health-both internally and externally. Secondly, President Obama needs your help desparately. Please reconsider for the nation. I wish you all the best, either way.
As former resident of Massachusetts believe me the end of the Kennedy Reign should have been after Chappaquiddick and would have been the end in any other state . I think Ted Kennedy's (rest his soul) run for the Presidency proved that.
Massachusetts needs new blood. Camelot is forever dead. Leave it . Massachusetts ought get off the emotion and on to qualifications.
Look within the great State of Massachusetts for any other name and one with experience and it should be obvious.