Squashed

There’s a lot of discussion on whether Caroline Kennedy is qualified to be a senator. Out of apathy, I’ve mostly sat this one out. It makes a nice narrative and narratives have a certain political power, regardless of their detractors. If Patterson wants to appoint somebody who will go into the Senate and command a considerable amount of recognition and respect (regardless of whether it’s deserved), Kennedy wouldn’t be a bad choice.

But is she qualified to be a Senator? Sure. She’s an accomplished attorney with a background in politics. She has more recognition amongst other senators than most alternatives—which could work to New York’s advantage. I don’t know that she’s the best choice—but she certainlys seems as qualified as a typical freshman senator.