Vacant Clinton Seat Occupied In Record Time

Let me say, thank you Gov. David Patterson. For:

• Resisting the urge to get involved in the media drama over the Clinton Replacement
• Filling the actual vacancy in 2 days
Picking a woman, which I think is important. (and said so a month ago)
• Picking someone qualified, who has actually been elected, by New Yorkers at least once.

And so ends the invented drama. Congratulations, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand!

Opinion On Clinton Senate Seat

Here are a few of my thoughts on replacing Hillary Clinton in the Senate:

• I believe a woman should be selected. There are plenty of qualified women.


• If Caroline Kennedy is appointed, particularly if there is any (even soft) pressure from Obama to do so, I think it is a clear sign that Washington and the President-elect are just fine with "dynastic politics."


• Fran Drescher is at least as qualified as Sweet Caroline.
  Don't get me wrong. Caroline Kennedy is a phenomenal woman. But, I think any Kennedy that wants a political seat should get elected.


• Just for good measure I'll say it again: I believe a woman should be selected. There are plenty of qualified women. How about a gay, Mexican, Jewish woman. Let's just go all out on the symbology.