Governor Deval Patrick Names Paul Kirk Interim Senator

Governor Patrick announced today, at 11pm EST, the appointment of Kirk as the interim senator. Patrick gained the power to appoint a temporary senator yesterday, with the Massachusetts Legislature giving final approval to a controversial bill that changes the state’s election law for the second time in five years. The change, which Kennedy urged shortly before his death, will allow Patrick, once he signs the bill, to appoint someone to Kennedy’s seat until a special election is held January 19.

Governor Patrick spoke highly of Paul Kirk, "I am pleased to appoint Paul Kirk as the interim Senator of Massachusetts ... Paul will not select the open seat in January. I know I join so many other citizens in thanking him for his willingness to serve."

Patrick went on to mention that Senator John Kerry has been a strong and impartial advocate in the US Senate, but the issues before the congress and nation are "too important to be one voice short".

Governor Patrick introduced Kirk and the room broke out in applause, backing the great choice he had made for an interim senator.

"I want to express my thanks." said Kirk. "A special thanks to Vicki and Ted, Jr to make the special effort to be here on this occasion. Senator Kennedy told me that it was the highest honor to serve the people of Massachusetts. It will be my highest honor as well. As we move forward this year...we should always continue to give thanks for Ted Kennedy"

Senator John Kerry spoke about the new appointment of Paul Kirk:

"We are blessed in Massachusetts. There are number of highly qualified people who the Governor could have appointed. This is a gentle and difficult transition. This is in the best interest of Massachusetts ... Paul Kirk shares Ted's love of the Commonwealth and the country. He understands that this is a moment of historic proportions for our country. I've worked w Paul and I have absolute confidence ... He is going to hit the ground running in Washington, DC."

Kirk,71, will retain Ted Kennedy's staff which is wonderful news for all involved.

"This is a special calling," said Kerry. "They had a deep friendship. It's no wonder Ted called Kirk "my dear friend" in his memoirs."

Paul Kirk's history with Ted Kennedy was both a deep friendship and a political one, as well. After Robert Kennedy was assassinated, Paul Kirk was ready to quit politics. Ted told him to fight on and he signed on to his staff in 1969. He was one of Ted's most important advisers. He was drawn into the health care debate with a passion with Kennedy. He will truly make Ted's life work a reality.

The interim senator could be sworn in within days after the secretary of the US Senate receives a certification of appointment from the governor, according to Beth Provenzano, a spokeswoman for the secretary’s office. The new senator could begin assembling a staff almost immediately, she said.

Written by Cheryl Phillips
Providence, RI
Exclusive to HULIQ.com