Edward M. Kennedy, a champion of progressive causes from the floor of the Senate for 47 years, succumbed to brain cancer on Tuesday. The youngest son of America’s most famous political dynasty, the Senator from Massachusetts had been the voice of his family ever since his emotional eulogy for his slain brother, Robert, in 1968.
Kennedy was an invaluable ally and respected opponent to 10 presidents, notably President George W. Bush, who teamed with the proudly liberal Senator on education legislation but clashed over the war in Iraq. In his later years, he became caricatured (The Simpsons’ Mayor Quimby), but his pace never slowed. Kennedy visited The Daily Show in 2006 to promote his book, America Back on Track, and the then-75 year-old was as charming and feisty as ever. Love him or hate him, his impact on modern America is beyond debate.
He was a powerful man, true. But he was flawed – so let’s remember that before we make him into some hero.
He caused the death of a young woman and used his power to make it all go away.
He drank and was a womanizer.
So take off the rose colored glasses. I’m sorry for his family as he was dedicated to them.
When you die, I hope every wrong deed and sin you ever committed is mentioned in your eulogy. That will be real nice for your family.
But this isn’t a eulogy, it’s a pop culture website. He is a public figure, and not everyone has to think he was the greatest thing ever. I feel bad for his family’s loss, but I think it’s appropriate to remember his flaws and not make him out to be more than he actually was just because he is now deceased.
If I’m responsible for someone else’s death and I never face any kind of justice for that, then yes, I certainly hope people will mention it when I die.
The Chappaquidick incident happened while I was still in high school and had no real political viewpoint. I felt then that Kennedy got off too easy in the death of Mary Jo Kopechne. I still think he got off too easy, but I also believe he turned out to be a great senator, even as flawed as he was. Apparently, the people of Massachusetts were happy with him, since they had many chances to vote him out of office. Only God can judge him now.
I cant get past the death of Mary Jo K either. He only got away with it because he was a Kennedy. Give me a break.
Dispite his faults Sen Kennedy was a masterful politician, statesman, and champion of civil, social and educational rights. He was an example to others in working across the aisle. He was a champion for those without a voice. He is respected; a cherished ally… a fierce advocate. He will be missed.
I agree. IMHO, we won’t see another politician who’ll fight harder for fairness, justice and equality.
Minutia – appropriate name for you.
No one is saying he is the greatest thing ever – we ALL have flaws. However his flaws do not take away from all the good things he has done for his country. I would even say that his flaws made him want to become a better person and use his influence to help people.
So small and petty of you to only want to point out the flaws.
Without question he was a powerful force in American politics who accomplished many important things. But I hardly think it’s “small and petty” to balance that good with the bad. He killed a young girl with his recklessness and then literally walked away from it because he was a Kennedy. I’d say that’s a bit more than a mere flaw.
I don’t see the point in insulting Minutia just because you don’t agree. And causing someone’s death is more than just a “flaw”, especially when he used his family influence to get away with it. I lean to the left and I’m a fan of the Kennedys, but I also can’t get past the way he carried on with his life after taking the life of another.
I find it odd that we are talking about a Senator on an ENTERTAINMENT site.
Yeah, it’s not just “a Senator.” It’s Ted Kennedy. He went beyond politics.
I like to imagine that Teddy was met at the Pearly Gates by Mary Jo Kopechne and he has to explain his actions to her and to his Maker.
I noticed,while watching the coverage of Ted leaving Hyannisport for the last time;
Was wondering if someone else saw,
a son or nephew of Ted,
placing his hand on the back of the hearst which held Ted Kennedy as he and the family passed to get to their limos to follow.
It was just few seconds,a pause,a hand placed to say goodbye….
Did anyone else see this?
Not sure if it were for the cameras,
I tend to think it was not;
a final goodbye
of love and rememberance.
It touched my heart;
Goodbye Ted,
You unite with your brothers,
And we remember Camelot and will miss the brothers Kennedy.