CNN

No!!! She has two years to prove herself!!! She is highly intellegent, spent most of her life in a political environment and has done an awful lot of good and written books on the Bill of Rights. She is more than qualified!!! After all she has lost her father and her uncle for this country!!! Give her a chance and we all may be better off!!!

Hi Jack:

Why should it? The republicans were ready to make Sarah Palin VP. I think Caroline Kennedy is better prepared. I think Caroline Kennedy would be an excellent choice to replace Senator Clinton.

Ron San Diego

Yeah, probably, Jack. Since she's seen as not corrupted she's a threat to the criminals in Congress. Can't have a NON-criminal in Congress, you know.

No. Maybe some discontent but not a backlash. A lot of appointments go to people with little direct experience in the area. It has been pointed out, that Caroline has qualifications similar to Hillary. You never know if it is a good appointment until there is a record.

It definitely will cause a backlash. The Second Coming is already taking friendly fire, and he's not even officially in office yet.

No, why should it cause a backlash? Caroline Kennedy is just as qualified as Hilary Clinton was when she ran for the job. If Sarah Palin can run for Vice President with her lack of perceptible intelligence, I certainly think that Caroline can perform admirably as a senator!

Yes Ibelieve it would. I don.t believe she has enough experience .

Within the inner circles of New York state's Democratic Party each of the candidates has their "supporters" and that is where a "backlash" will be the loudest. The rest of the country will be more supportive of a Caroline Kennedy appointment. If just for the "name recoginion".

Everything that happens causes a backlash or a whiplash of some kind, enough already.

Only if she refuses to become a crooked politician, like the rest of them. But, lets face it, she'll take graft, oops, contributions, just like them. Why don't we ask congressman to not vote on any law that may benefit their contributors? In all honesty, they should recuse themselves. Why should she associate herself with the current batch of incompetent idiots elected by us, the other incompetent batch of idiots. Why sully the name of her family.

Denis
Pittsburgh, Pa

Why should it? Caroline is an intelligent, well-informed, politically savvy individual. I trust her to be fair, pursue the rights and needs of her constituents and act in accordance with our Constitution. She is better qualified than many other Senators. More power to her!

I should hope not. What's with the Caroline hatred anyway? There is a long, long list of individuals who have been appointed to fill Senate seats over the years and I'm unaware there is a special clause in the rule that excludes Kennedys.

No, why should it. It is a decision made by the Governor of NY and concerns NY, not the Democratic Party.

No! Some backlash in NY among Repubs, but Dem's know that Caroline K. would be a plus in any office!

I don't think backlash is likely, but, it is amazing that the Democrats' best argument for putting Caroline Kennedy in this Senate seat is that she could easily raise the 20 million bucks needed for re-election in 2012. Now that's a qualification!

There should't be any backlash. She's just as qualified as Hillary was when she took the office. I think the Clinton camp, and friends, are afraid that she will try to run for President in 8 years!

results are all that matters. It seems the mold for what should make a senator has been a failure thus far. Maybe we should look outside the "mold" to fix what's wrong with washington. What could it hurt if she gets the seat? More debt?, or more inaction?

I don't get why. Caroline Kennedy is smart, has a law degree and powerful allies. She has raised her children and is looking to expand her public service role. She is at least as qualified as Jeb Bush when he started his polirtical career, or Arnold Schwarzenegger. And then there's Sarah Palin – my terrier is more qualified and smarter than she.

I'm sure that would depend on the qualifications of the other people being considered for Clinton's seat. There is going to be a howl from some camp or another irregardless of Patterson's choice. People should respect his honest pick and let it go at that.

I don't think there would be. Hillary Clinton had as much experience when she moved to New York and was instantly voted into the Senate. At least Caroline is a New Yorker. I think she would be a great improvement.

While Caroline Kennedy has an admirable record as a philanthropist, author and attorney, she has spent the majority of her adulthood avoiding the public eye and is, by most accounts, a shy and reclusive person. She has also never subjected herself to the rigors of an election. If not for her famous last name, she would never be considered a serious prospect.

Whlie there is an argument to be made that a political "outsider" could bring new ideas to the Senate, the people of the state of New York deserve a Senator who has at least once run for major office and won the people's vote and confidence. Ms. Kennedy has never seen fit to take that step and that, I think, makes her a poor choice for Mrs. Clinton's seat.

Anytime Democrats find themselves on opposite sides of the same issue, the RNC is ready to pounce. So, yes, Jack, this thing could really blow up. When Democrats (like Robert Zimmerman) insist on playing "measure the resume," they only risk awakening an otherwise slumbering RNC pundit who starts pulling out Mr. Obama's for a looksy. If the Democrats don't want to be without a chair when the music stops, they should unite, and by unite I mean unite in silence and quit throwing favor or criticism behind any one candidate and let Governor Patterson do his job.

I don't think it will cause a backlash, it shouldn't. Caroline has had lots of experience that she will be able to apply to the position of senator, more experience than p.elect Obama had when he entered as a senator to the Chicago Legislature. I don't even think republicans will mind, other than Bay, and she moans about everything, I have yet to hear her compliment anyone, oh wait, she was behind S.Palin, well there you go. What Ms. Kennedy will bring to the senate is intelligent, coherent and honest opinion, she will fight for the right and help President Obama enormously, she is not motivated by greed or the need for limelight, she wants to help the American people, similar to the aspirations of her father, it is not an american fairy tale, it is a competent woman who aspires to public service for all the right reasons. I hope she is appointed to the senate, and watch out America, because with the right people now holding the reigns, you will become the nation you have always heralded yourselves to be.

The Voters should be able to elect someone to replace Clinton, Obama, Biden, etc. Hold a special campaign and election and let the voters decide. Why should anyone get special treatment by being appointed, not having to campaign and do all the hard work thats required to get elected, and having the American people voice their choice in the matter? To answer your question, the backlash has already begun! Our government is in shambles as it is, and this kind of stuff just puts it out in the open.

Caroline should not be excluded because she is from Kennedy family. She avoided politics as a way of her life and now she has a calling to serve the community. She did a good job of being chair for Vice Presidential pick. She has done a lot of charity work. She knows the pulse of the people in in New York.

Carolyn Kennedy is a lawyer and has dozens of years of political and public experience. If they allowed Palin to run for the second most important job in the country than there should be absolutely no objection to Carolyn becoming Senator.

I think it could. All these years, she didn't get involved, now she wants that senate seat. I thought all the senate seats and house seats belong to the people. Shouldn't we decide who gets elected to represent us in Congress. Is this no longer a Democracy?

Who cares, it 6 of one or half dozen of another – they are all the same. However, this "get the job because of your name" should not be – but we live in a almost sick society these days.
J Buck
Minnesota

Who cares?

Jack,
Why should it cause a backlash within the democratic party. She is after all a democrat and she has name recognition. She also does not have any negative baggage tied to herself, she is well spoken and educated. So what is the problem? Was the seat promised to someone else? Kinda makes one think that if the democrats do something inappropriate that she spoiled their plans by throwing her hat in the ring.I think she would be a good choice for NY, but alas I am not Gov. Patterson.
Judie
St. Augustine, Fl

She doesn't have any less experience than Hillary did when she became a US Senator from New York. At least she is a true resident of New York. Let the Governor appoint whoever he wants for as much money as he can get..... oh, never mind, wrong state.

If Kennedy is selected, it would only be for political reasons and therefore NOT cause political backlash. Cuomo is probably the better suited individual and I look to see his selection first!

yes and it should
perry jones council Bulffs iowa

I doubt it but maybe it should. There are more quilified choices out there. Sad to rely on the family name.

I don't see why. It's not like she isn't politically savvy and just because she has not held an office before, neither had Hillary before she was Senator. Just because someone has campaigned for an office, doesn't mean they are more qualified than someone who is appointed and whoever is appointed will have to run again in 2 years. Hillary had spent less time in NY than Caroline before she moved there so that she could run for the Senate. Is this another "purchase" that others are trying to make? Why the big stink?

I doubt it but maybe it should. There are more quilified choices out there. Sad to rely on the family name.

I would hope not. Traditionally, the parties head is the President. Obama has said the buck stops with him. Why not Caroline, a fresh new face without the old established politics would represent change we can believe in. Caroline is no dummy, her mother had the good sense to raise her as human, even if there was money. This Kennedy would be reflective of our future and the hopes of Americas prosperity. Caroline is as qualified as Hillary Clinton. It doesn't require you to pay your dues, its a thing of serving your country and constituents.

I do not think so. Caroline is known as being involved with human rights and for supporting the working middle class of America. the only people that would be upset is the people that might lose a handout for the rich like what has been going on for the past 20 years.

absolutely not !

I don't think so. She is a Kennedy and she has her cousins and her uncle to help her along. I think the Republicans are the ones who need to get their stuff together. Maybe old Newt should run for the senator of NY but then he would become stupid again.

I don't think there will be a backlash, my biggest complaint against Palin was she WAS NOT smarter than a 5th grader! Caroline Kennedy attended Columbia Law School and has a Juris Doctor with a public service record to go with it just like Obama, Hilliary, Biden and every one else not named McCain and Palin!

She should not jump to the front of the line, but there will not be a backlash if she does. She will always be coddled by Dems.

I do not think so I think it could be a healing. After all once appointed she will have to prove herself which she will be able to do.
To much is focused on negative factors. Anyone should be able to become a Senator. That is how our country was founded was it not.

There will be a backlash. Some people are never happy. But please, look around at the company she will be keeping in the Senate, the greatest deliberative body in the world. Not exactly a bunch of rocket surgeons.

Who cares?

Perhaps because the view will be that anyone named Kennedy can just walk into politics. You can even get a job at a fast food joint with at least a resume' and an interview. Conversly, on her worst day she will never be able do cause as much damage as Sarah Palin caused the Republican Party. She more than likely knows her geography and politics and at the very least articulate the english language well enough to explain her qualifications. She's a quick study and if she's anything like her uncle, the Dems have very little to worry about.

There might be a little "spouting off" about it initially, but once she settles into the position and shows what she can do, she won't have any problems with the Democratic side of the aisle. Actually, darned few Republicans would dare to attack JFK's daughter. If anyone could be considered "untouchable" in the political arena, it would be her.

Hi Jack,

Who knows with all the egos that exist naturally in politics! The fact that she made her intention known publicaly should be looked at positively at not doing backroom deals! She is capable of defending her qualifications and stand on her own!

Jack, there is a lot of fiendishly mined people in this Country. Our last two elections proved that it’s time to start having someone in office who exactly cares about this Country welfare dammit? So why not appoint Caroline Kennedy instead of the other jokers that have devastated this Country. Simply unbelievable!

Not sure, but why not appoint someone with some experience, and if Caroline really wants the Senate position let her campaign to be elected when the time comes.

Perhaps because the view will be that anyone named Kennedy can just walk into politics. You can't even get a job at a burger joint with at least a resume' and an interview showing some sort of skill. But even on her worst day she will never be able to cause as much damage as has a certain Alaskan Govenor to the Republican Party. She more than likely knows her geography and politics and at the very least articulate the english language well enough to explain her qualifications. She's a quick study and if she's anything like her uncle, the Dems have very little to worry about.

Jack,

This is the back to the future change us Dems are waiting for.

Dean

Who said she feels entitled? It sounds like she's doing all the things she would do if she didn't feel entitled.

This really isn't a problem. Democrats are much more worried about the family from Crawford than the one from Camelot, any day.

No. I think the democrates see a need for more women in the Senate.

There won't be any backlash from us older Democrats who remember that that senate seat could have been occupied by Caroline's little brother–the late JFK, Jr.–if he would have wanted it.

Jack, I don’t think it would cause a backlash within the Democratic Party as the Kennedy name is as close to royalty in the party as it comes here in the US. She had better prove herself worthy of the appointment quickly; however, as there are New York Republicans like Peter King and numerous Democrats that are ready to pounce in 2010.

I think it could cause a backlash from Democrats and Republicans. No one can question that Kennedy is technically qualified for the job. But, the question will be: "Is she the most qualified to represent the people of New York State?" If this question cannot be put to rest, Kennedy's appointment will appear to be some combination of patronage and favoritism. I would not strictlky compare this to the Illinois Senate issue, but there are clear parallels in terms of making a Senate seat available as a sign of appreciation for "support," whether through political endorsement or through bribes.

Jack – it will all depend on Gov. Patterson. I think he will give the seat to her, right after Hillary is sworn in.
Joe -

There will be backlash no matter who the Governor appoints. He can minimize this by consulting widely among Democrats before making his decision – listening especially closely to Senator Schumer.

This is a no-win for Governor Paterson, but I do not think Caroline Kennedy is the right choice. There are many other people who have represented New York in Congress or at a more local level within the state who have proven their legislative ability. Caroline Kennedy is an honorable person, and will no doubt work hard. But she has not earned the appointment, and name recognition alone should not be what guides this appointment. As a New Yorker, I feel our Senate seat is too valuable, and belongs to a proven leader and legislator.

I am sure that CK with her resume is as qualified or more qualified that the EBAY lady that everybody thought could be VP. It would be for 2 years and if she's then elected, fine. If not, that's what the elections are for. She is as qualified as the Governor of California, the past Governor of Minnesota, etc. then in 2010, she can run for the seat. I like her, I hope she gets it.

No, it won't cause any kind of backlash from the dems because she will do a good job, although I'm sure the republicans will throw if fit like little children and be fake-outraged. By the way, Cuomo us the son of a politician, too.

Jack: Anything is possible, but I don't think so. Governor David Patterson has come to see Ms. Kennedy as a strong potential candidate whose appointment would keep a woman in the seat and whose personal connections would allow her to raise the roughly $70 million required to hold the seat in the coming years. Governor Patterson craves national attention and money--and if you connect the dots, it leads to her."

Democratic backlash? no. 1 – who cares? They have plenty
of time/opportunity to "backlash" over all their other mistakes.

no. 2, the founding fathers didn't say "make a lifetime job" in
Washington – it was more of a "do your duty and go home", I don't believe they made a list of "qualifications", so she is "just as
qualified as anyone else" theoretically.

There should be no backlash, as it's obvious that Governor Patterson's appointment would be based on her merits, not on her striking good looks. Caroline Kennedy does not, in my opinion, project a sense of entitlement. If the Democrats have a problem with her ascension to the senate, there's always 2010. How much damage could she do in two years?
Jeff,
Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Probably but it shouldn't. She's a very capable person, who despite (and like) her uncle, is intelligent, thoughtful and is experienced in the world.

For all the noise we make about cleaning house in congress and throwing out the professional politicians, we tend to keep putting them back in.

Let's hope so Jack. It's not just a sense of entitlement, it's like the Kennedy's expect it's their manifest destiny. They've never felt bound by the same rules as the rest of us. If they were Teddy would have spent a few of those years in prison instead of the Senate.

we think she is perfect for the job..we were born & raised in upstate NY...they will love her in Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse when she campaigns there..A Cuomo can remain attorney general ...love u Larry !....

nope!..the only crowds that are making noise about this senate seat are andrew cuomo (ex-husband to kerry kennedy and some hillraisers)..caroline deserve the same shot just like hillary was running for the senate in 2000...remember now, hillary got the seat due to bill clinton's presidency..if the democrats ruining this opportunity for kennedy, they better watch out for voters who can kick them to the curb!!

Where has she been all these years? Should we all just step aside because of her name? She really got a taste of the limelight recently and thought that she might like the attention of it all. Why don't we use the criteria of ability for once.

In politics – no one can please everyone - There will be some resentment if she gets the seat. The only problem with it is basically she's not going to work very much in the Senate right away because of the way-too-long elecion seasons that have emerged - She'll start campaigning for 2010 soon & the people of New York won't get much of a chance to see what she can do for them as well as the country as a whole.

Yes, indeed Jack. With all due respect to Caroline Kennedy, appointing her to the senate would be wrong. Part of the problem with Congress is exactly this very thing! If you are a Bush, Clinton, Kennedy etc., you have a better chance on being in power than a regular person!

We need regular NEW people in power, not the same old!

You mean to tell me Caroline Kennedy isn't Hillary Clinton? Sorry, I thought it was the same woman utilizing a different moniker.

Jack , Caroline Keennedy is probably more intelligent than our current pres. If she wants to get involved with politics, let .
She probably could do as good of a job as anyother.

No, there would be no backlash. The more the better. My question is who in the media know the qualifications to be appointed to fulfill a unexpired senators term in congress? If they don't then they should shut up. Let the governor handle this and not a comentator or so call News pundant.

Americans are tired of the 'Lucky Birth Club.' After twelve years of lackluster leadership by the Bush dynasty, I don't think any Americans, neither Democrats nor Republicans, are willing to go down that same old last name road again.

I don't understand all the fuss over Caroline Kennedy being appointed to the senate. Hillary Clinton went from being a resident of Arkansas to the junior Senator form New York with nary a Democratic whimper. A much larger stretch than placing an actual New Yorker in the seat.

I think it will definitely backfire. Who wants more royal blood in politics? We have the Bush, Clinton, Kennedy, Daley, Jackson families trying to take over this country. Come on already enough is enough.

How could appointing Caroline Kennedy to the senate create a backlash? She is a lot better looking than Hillary.

Maurice
Two Rivers Wisconsin

Democrats will always find a way to scream "not fair" like spoiled school children but that doesn't mean it's not a good fit. I for one think she deserves this position and she will do an outstanding job.

I'm somewhat torn on this question. on one hand, Caroline Kennedy is the type of "not a professional politician" social advocate that would probably be good for the country to have in the Senate BUT the other side of the argument is "can she put up with the nasty side of politics?" because she has absolutely NO record running for office.

I'm willing to give her a chance because that Senate seat is up for election in 2010 so we have a short time to see how she does. if she was to fail, she can be voted out then.

Are you kidding? It would be wonderful to have a Kennedy in the Senate to take RFK's old seat. By the way, what exactly were Mrs. Clinton's "qualifications" to be a U.S. Senator? In fact, Obama is a little "short" on qualifications to be a U.S. President, but that didn't stop millions of people from standing in line for hours to vote for him!
Democrats can just get over themselves!

Here is a woman who never expressed any interest in holding office and now she wants to be appointed Senator. It seems she feels somehow entitled to the job just because she is a Kennedy. We have just endured the Bush dynasty. We need to stop the family entitlement and get on with reforming Washington. I,for one,will be very angry and disappointed if she is appointed to the Senate.

I am a New Yorker and a Democrat. I have no problem with Caroline Kennedy being appointed my senator for two years. From what I know of her she is not in this for the money, power of fame. I think she has a good deal of personal integrity. She can get Obama's ear if need be and I think she can help the state.

What more do you want in a senator ?

Are you kidding? It would be wonderful to have a Kennedy in the Senate to take RFK's old seat. By the way, what exactly were Mrs. Clinton's "qualifications" to be a U.S. Senator? In fact, Obama is a little "short" on qualifications to be a U.S. President, but that didn't stop millions of people from standing in line for hours to vote for him!
Democrats can just get over themselves!

From where? We are united.

Jack
This is all about money and the large contributions Kennedy will bring to the table if she is selected to fill the senate seat vacated by Clinton, I cant imagine any backlash from the democrats.

No! I don't know how appointing Caroline Kennedy to fill Hillary Clinton's Senate seat could cause a backlash within the Democratic Party. They didn't think Hillary Clinton was qualified for the job. Caroline Kennedy is just as qualified as anyone else. I think it's an issue that Democrats should come together on, and support whoever is appointed.

Who cares whether or not appointing Kennedy causes a backlash within the Democratic Party? The Democratic Party should have embraced Al Sharpton in 2004 when he was one of their presidential candidates. It is refreshing to see Carolyn Kennedy coming forward to take on the old Democratic bosses with her beliefs like equal rights for gays and for her defense of Americans' right to privacy and other important constitutional issues. Remember, this Democratic Party is the same one who elected the do-nothing Congress of the past two years who have gotten the lowest public approval rating of all time.
Brownwood, Texas

Caroline Kennedy would make a good senator. She has intelligence, good judgement and compassion for the American people. She has been around politics enough to know how the system works, but
is not part of the good ole boy network, which are the kind of
people we need.
Jack, look at what so called political experience has done to our
country. Look at the irresponsible actions of so many "learned"politicians
that are supposed to represent us. I believe she would.
Not having political experience is an asset.

As a democrat myself, I know that some of us will always find a way to yell "no fair" like spoiled school children, but that does not mean that Caroline Kennedy will do not be a great fit and do an even greater job in the New York Senate.

Jack,
We are approaching close to 10% of the members of Congress with direct family ties. and with the Bush and Clinton, and Kennedy Families the entrenchment of family dynasties. Only one member of a family or extended family should serve at a time and 2 or 6 years should separate terms. Democracies thrive on diversity and change.
Jim Los Angeles

Maybe she should run for uncle lTed's seat. We all criticized Palin for her lack of experience, how much more less does Caroline have. If you want nepotism in Congress keep it in the same state at least.

I don't believe in dynasties, or appointment or election based on an individuals name, but that is the way of American politics and most other things today. That's why HRC was elected to that seat, name recognition.

Yes, Jack, of course there will be some backlash as many will not agree to any entitlement because she is a Kennedy. But, the key question is whether she is the best candidate to serve the people as Senator of New York State?

no, i think not only democrats but all average americans will find it to be exciting to see a person with the same moral convictions as hillary take this seat over. ir's refreshing to see a literate and unwanting person with no past political ties to be a senator.

Probably. The Kennedys have become symbols, but that doesn't mean Caroline Kennedy shouldn't have to do unpleasant things like exposing her personal life and campaigning to attain office. However, I respect Governor Paterson and believe he will make a choice based on merit.

Hope not. I can't speak for New York, but I sure would like to see her get it. Republicans have dynasties also with Bushes and Doles. I think she would be committed and earn our respect. Cuomo would be ok too. Too bad we can't have both.

Credential should mean something in the politicial arena. A Senator should have knowledge of various problems in the country. Whether she should get the job or not I dont know but I would hope that whom ever does has credential, knowledge, and moral because their vote not only affect the state that there from but all other states also.

Jack,

I don't know why there would or should be a backlash in the Democratic Party.

When Hillary Clinton took this seat, she possessed a comparable level of experience. Of course she began as a campaigning candidate. The argument for Kennedy, with this in mind, is she will have to campaign in two years. In those two years she will have a chance to show her stuff.

If the backlash is based on her sense of entitlement, doesn’t that mean those with this argument are thinking, “It’s my turn”? UHHHHH....isn't that rational entitlement?

So my opinion is GO FOR IT GIRL!!!!!

hi jack
its up to the govenor and everyone need to respect his choice,if she dosent get the job she will run in 2010 and get it anyway.Obama and the Kennedy clan will she to that,no one can raise money like the Kennedys and Obama teams clearwater,fl

A new Kennedy in the Senate will probably be praised all over the United States. Americans who watched the news after her father's assascination felt an affinity with this survivor of the beloved President. I think that the love for her and the attachment to her will quell any doubts about her being appointed to the Senate. She will be a great Senator for the state of New York and fighter for the good of a nation still healing from many wounds in our recent past.

the people should hope so!

jack thats a stupid part of the democrats to get mad if caroline were to get the seat, i love the kennedys and she will be make a great senator in my opinion as her uncles have and as her father once did

There will be no backlash if Kennedy is appointed because both Democrats and Republicans are alike in their half-blind celebration of party idols. Besides, "Its not what you know, its who you know," is an American proverb. All hopes for an American meritocracy went out the window in the 60s and vast majority don't really care who is appointed.

Paterson can appoint anyone he wants, as long as it's not a republican, Democrats will get over it. They got over Hillary losing the nomination and the Vice-presidency didn't they.

It should not!!! But of course those jealous people who think that only those people who currently serve in office should be given the position might get upset. But not because of her name as much as her understanding of issues, and her desire to raise her family first, put her family first, before service, I like that and think it more than qualifies her. She will have the time to deveote and not be concern with raising her family.

Hi Jack:

Why should it? The republicans were ready to make Sarah Palin VP. I think Caroline Kennedy is better prepared. I think Caroline Kennedy would be an excellent choice to replace Senator Clinton.

Ron San Diego

No. Being the offspring of a president is a great qualification for an important political office. Didn't "W" already prove that?

Absolutely. These vacancy appointments just stink to high Heaven of corruption. And this Caroline Kennedy person Jack...remind me again, who is she? I think that if you vacate your elected post before the end of its term, the seat should go to whomever came in second in the election. That would solve that problem in a hurry.

who cares...she is intelligent, honest, hard working and NOT A Washington politician. She lives in New York has her family there and will work to better education and other things. She will be in a good position to obtain aid for New York as she supported OBama early on.

Why would it? The Kennedys have public service in their genes. Besides she’s way more qualified than most of those fools on the Hill. Guaranteed she’s a lot smarter. They should give her Harry Reid’s job. He’s not doing it.

Jack, She is more than qualified not because she is a Kennedy, but for her involvment in public service. Governor Paterson should appoint her and in 2010 if the electorate in New York does not think she is representing the state, then they can vote someone else in.

Jere – Michigan

It's a shame she is putting this kind of pressure on the governor. It's supposed to be his choice. Typical Kennedy ego. There are so many more qualified people to choice from.

Yes, there could be a backlash in the party if Caroline is NOT appointed. There is a big difference between lack of experience and lack of competence. We have a congress full of incompetence, I hope Governor Paterson chooses competence.

Maybe in the beginning, but if she proves herself to be a good appointment, all will be forgiven.

I think Caroline Kennedy is a great choice. I hope we see the work she has accomplished. I would love to see a elected official stay as true to their cause as Caroline Kennedy. The idea that she is not qualified is stupid.

Backlash? I'm not so sure yet is she even qualified? Just because she is a Kennedy she becomes a Senator? Seems like the upper class can have whatever they want, even a Senator's seat.

What is the fuss?
Didn't she say that if she does not get appointed, she will run in 2010?
In the meantime I do think she would be perfect as Under secretary of Education....then she can run.
Marjorie
NY

There is no campaign. People of New York would still want to do what she will do for them in next two years if she is elected by the Governor of New York.

I can't imagine why it should. Some families are born with political savvy and service to others in the genes; I believe the Kennedys are one of those rare families.

Jack, there shouldn't be any backlash. If Caroline Kennedy's bonafides aren't good enough for us Democrats, I don't know whose are.

At least she won't be scaming the people, she has a family name to uphold and no doubt she would do a good job, it may cause some democrats to grumble a little but they are the ones that expect something without having to give anything.

Caroline Kennedy can do one thing that the democratic party needs in 2010 – she can raise money! plain and simple. This is why she will end up appointed to the vacant senate seat. And all of this internal 'grumbling', in my opinion, is for show... the entire party will benefit from the exposure she can bring.

It definately should create a backlash. It is high time Americans stopped looking up to people just because they have a famous name and money. What other qualifications does Caroline Kennedy really have to become a Senator?
She was born into a family name and money and I don't believe she can identify with working people, which is very much needed in this economic environment.

Hi Jack,

No I don't think it should cause backlash in the Democratic Party... I am surprised at all the anti-Caroline stuff in the press and on TV...

She is incredibly intelligent, is well connected, and has done an enormous amount already for the public school system in NYC...

She definitely has my vote....

No, I think the democratic party will embrace her.

If she gets it I'll vote for the GOP orchard park ny

We need new folks in Congress!

Yes, but with everything going on right now, what wouldn't?

Missoula, Montana

As a Democrat, I am quite pleased by the possible selection of Caroline Kennedy to fill the seat once held by her uncle. She is smart, accomplished and dedicated to public service. I look forward to hearing her public positions on education and other areas of concern.

Frankly I am puzzled that anyone who supported HIllary would have an issue with Caroline. She is no more or less qualified and neither of them served in elected office until they decided to run for the senate. At least Caroline is a life long New Yorker.

It seams like the auto industry is holding its employees hostage and is threting to financily assonate them if the government don’t pay-up.

I am from New York and I will vote for Caroline Kennedy if she runs for the senate in 2010. By the way, Andrew Cuomo is the son of a Governor of New York. What about the Bush boys who traded on their father's power to get to the White House and governor's offices?
I would not vote for Cuomo after he called our next president a drug user.

Will NY governor Paterson select Caroline? Will Hillary resent Caroline for taking her senate seat? Will that hurt Paterson's chances to get re-appointed as governor? And where does that leave Cuomo? Tune in tonight for the latest installment of the Clinton-Kennedy saga !

Americans like to think that everyone has a chance at making it in this country. These kinds of dynastial politics undermine democracy. Caroline Kennedy should be ashamed of even seeking the seat. The decision is up to Governor Patterson and this is not an election it is an appointment.

No!
Isn't it time we come to grips with the fact that the government will work better if we let smart people run it?

Abslutely not.
I was hoping Obama would pick her for VP
Maybe she should run for president in 2016