Patrick Kennedy says he’s ‘taking a new direction,’ decides against seeking 9th term
By Michelle R. Smith, APFriday, February 12, 2010
Kennedy ‘taking a new direction’
WASHINGTON — With Rep. Patrick Kennedy’s decision not to seek re-election, Washington will be left without a Kennedy in political office for the first time in more than 60 years.
The Rhode Island Democrat’s term ends early next year but he says his life is “taking a new direction” and he will not seek a ninth term in Congress. The 42-year-old Kennedy is the son of the late Sen. Edward Kennedy. The congressman plans to air his announcement of his decision on Rhode Island television stations Sunday.
The Associated Press viewed the message Thursday. Kennedy does not give a reason for the decision but says it has been a difficult few years for many people and mentions his father’s passing.
YOUR VIEW POINT
