The more I think about Caroline Kennedy being named to the U.S. Senate as Clinton’s replacement, the more I like the move. I understand the whole “dynasty”/using-her-name argument, but I also think those are valid reasons to support her appointment. Hear me out…

Clinton, coming off her Presidential run, was set to be one of the most powerful senators in DC (she was already, but more so now), so we need someone that can step in and fill that void as much as possible. Kennedy provides that star power and clout, more so than any other name mentioned as a possibility. She can step in and immediately have the ear of Obama and many, many senators – all because of her name. Those are significant benefits to New York and the country at this point in time, when we actually need to get things done… and fast.

I understand she hasn’t run for public office, but I think folks are underestimating and discounting her life experience. She’s been around politics and in the public spotlight her whole life. She’s very well educated, a Constitutional scholar/author, and has made significant contributions to the public good in her many ventures. She can handle the position, no doubt.

My only concern is she will be too heavily focused on New York City and not Upstate. But I also think that is a valid concern of any top contender, outside of Byron Brown and Brian Higgins, both of whom I’d support, but are polling well behind Kennedy and Andrew Cuomo who seem to be the top two for the position. I think Cuomo would do well in the position, but I also think he fits better as NY Attorney General right now. 

And the great thing about all of this is if you don’t support Kennedy, you’ll have your chance to not vote for her in 2010. Right now, though, we need someone who can fill HRC’s shoes and Kennedy is that person.

Photo from Flickr: joeburnham