Gov. Deval Patrick (D-MA) has announced that January 19 has been set as the date for the special election to replace Ted Kennedy in the United States Senate — and that he is still pushing for legislation to allow an interim appointment.
The Boston Globe pointed out today that the primary election would be held on December 8 under such a schedule. The winner of the Democratic nomination will be heavily favored to ultimately win the seat.
Patrick acknowledged that the possibility of an interim appointment had been rejected when the law changed in 2004 — when state Democrats stripped then-Republican Gov. Mitt Romney of the ability to appoint a Senator, in case John Kerry would have won the presidency. But Patrick said he was not there at the time, and is not familiar with all the facts, but that the best way to get the state full representation is through an appointment.
The Boston Globe also reports that a state legislative committee will hold a hearing on the appointment bill next week. The bill could potentially be passed into law as soon as a few days from then — putting the Democrats back at 60 seats.
Patrick also said that Vicki Kennedy, the widow of Ted Kennedy, was not interested in being appointed as interim Senator. This would appear to clear the way for former Gov. Michael Dukakis, the 1988 Democratic nominee for President, whose name has been floated for the position. Patrick did not give a clear answer on Dukakis, except to say he has tremendous respect for the former governor.
