At first when I heard about Caroline Kennedy wanting to become Senator from New York I felt outraged. How could someone with money and a famous name, just stand up and say, ‘I’ll take it’. Someone who hadn’t fought in the political trenches. Someone who had never held political office, nor had a established public role.
As someone who lived the first 18 years of my life in upstate New York, this was another example of someone using their power and money to get what they wanted without a true passion or understanding of the responsibility this positions requires. ‘Oh my staff’ can do the work, I’ll just show up for votes and let my voice be heard.’ ‘I’m a Kennedy. I lost my father, this is owed to me.’
After much thought and reflection, I am now ok with Caroline Kennedy being appointed to the position of Senator from New York. In considering the recent political problems by the Governors of New York and Illinois, a Senator from Alaska. A member of the House in Louisiana and many many others. I changed my opinion.
Perhaps Caroline Kennedy would make a good hardworking, ethical member of Congress. Someone who understands that public service is about doing what is right and good for America. Maybe she understands that it is about representing the views of her constituents, about making good laws and about changing bad ones.
Caroline is a trained lawyer, mother and published author. A wife and daughter who has suffered many tragedies in her life, along with many joys.
I have always felt that a person needed a certain level of life experience prior to being an effective elected official. How could someone represent my interest, who hasn’t experienced life. Caroline Kennedy has experienced life.
I think someone with a famous name, while it gives them a certain level of privilege, it also comes with a certain level of responsibility. As Senator, Caroline will be considered a ‘rock star’. Her every action and statement will be dissected for meaning and purpose. Her life and career will be chronicled more than any other potential member of Congress.
Yes, there other well-qualified persons capable of being Senator from New York. I would be ok with many of the persons who have asked to be considered for the appointment. Should Caroline Kennedy be consider among that group. I believe so.
Tags: Caroline Kennedy, Caroline Kennedy Schlossberg, Governor of New York, Kennedy, New York Senate Seat, New York Senator, Senate Appointment
