Caroline Kennedy Withdraws From Senate Competition

Posted on January 21, 2009

In a surprise move, Caroline Kennedy has withdrawn her name from consideration to fill Hillary Clinton's senate seat. The New York Post reported it first, then the New York Times reported that she withdrew over concern for her uncle Ted Kennedy's health.

On Wednesday she called Gov. David A. Paterson, who will choose a successor to Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton. Her concerns about Senator Edward M. Kennedy�s deteriorating health (he was hospitalized after suffering a seizure during President Obama�s inaugural lunch on Tuesday ) prompted her decision to withdraw, this person said. Coping with her uncle�s condition was her most important priority, a situation not conducive to starting a high profile public job. Mr. Paterson had indicated to her that the job was hers if she would accept it, the person said.

An AP story said that she had the appointment all locked up. But Governor Paterson has spoken highly of many other candidates for the post. Some are speculating that Governor Paterson told her that she was not the pick and is allowing her to withdraw her name in a gracious, face-saving move.

The idea that she would back out because of Ted Kennedy's health doesn't make much sense. Ted really wants Caroline to have that seat. Ted has a wife, family and the best medical care in the world and she knew he was ill when she started campaigning for the job. We'll know more when she issues a statement.