Senator Kennedy Says Hurry Up But Not Permanently

Teddy Kennedy is asking that Deval Patrick select someone to fill his Senate seat quickly but not permanently if he is forced to step down due to medical reasons. This would require a change in Massachusetts law for senate succession, which requires voters to select the new senator. Senator Kennedy wants to make sure his seat would be filled during the five months it would take by law to conduct an election. Kennedy has brain cancer and underwent surgery for a tumor last summer, then had a seizure early this year. He has been able to perform his duties but is clearly thinking ahead. We know no one can fill Teddy's shoes, but we hope that Massachusetts will be represented if he steps aside.