Her official interest sparks debate
NEW YORK --
Caroline Kennedy's interest in the U.S. Senate seat now held by Hillary Clinton is making for lots of talk, about whether having the Kennedy name is enough to qualify her for the position.
Kennedy, who's 51, has been a very private person until her very public support of Barack Obama, and this week she's saying publicly she's interested.
Reaction here in Syracuse: Outgoing Congressman Jim Walsh, honored by the Onondaga County Legislature for 20 years of service to the area, says 'Well, I think you have to earn this." He points to Clinton's tenure and asks 'Why did she come here initially?' Walsh now thinks we should ask, 'Why is Caroline Kennedy interested?"
Incoming 25th District Congressman Dan Maffei is noncommittal on who he'd support, saying it's the Governor's decision. Action News caught up with him, as he was touring Sensis Corporation in East Syracuse, learning more about big employers in the district. Maffei says he has tremendous admiration for Caroline Kennedy, and that she could do anything she wants, including being a U.S. Senator, but he also says "I like her as a candidate, but I like other candidates, too."
Governor David Paterson will make the appointment, but Senator Clinton has indicated she will not vacate the position until her confirmation hearings.
