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Wednesday, January 21, 2009

NY-B: Kennedy Withdraws Senate Bid

The New York Times is reporting the stunning development that Caroline Kennedy "has withdrawn [herself] from consideration for the vacant Senate seat in New York, according to a person told of her decision."

Kennedy was always thought to be Democratic Gov. David Paterson's top pick to replace Hillary Clinton in the Senate, who was confirmed today as Secretary of State. The New York Post even reported last week that she was going to be his pick.

Kennedy reportedly called Paterson late today to announce that she was withdrawing her name from consideration, citing her uncle Sen. Ted Kennedy's health problems. However, the Post is reporting that Paterson had already informed Kennedy that he would not pick her, and that her formal withdrawal was primarily just to save face.

Earlier polls show that New York voters prefer state Attorney General Andrew Cuomo to fill the position, but it is not known whether these polls have swayed Paterson's decision for the appointment. Paterson has also recently been talking up Rep. Kirsten Gillibrand.

Paterson is expected to announce his selection this Saturday. Stay tuned.

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