A Young, Progressive New Yorker AGAINST Caroline Kennedy for Senate.

All the buzz in the choice for the replacement of Hillary Clinton has taken a sharp turn from a discussion of strong, qualified Upstate and Downstate politicians to one woman: Caroline Kennedy.  The media is jumping at the possibility of another Kennedy rising to political prominence.  However, this should not be a choice as to whether or not to carry on a political dynasty for Governor David Paterson.  As a citizen of the State in question, New York, I believe that Paterson’s choice should instead be what is best for the very troubled state of New York.  Don’t get me wrong, I am Progressive person, who agrees with Kennedy on a multitude of issues.  Putting that aside, the question remains as to whether or not she is the right person for the job.

Usually, when I say that I am from New York, the question that is posed to me is “Oh really, what borough?”.  The sad part is that the whole state of New York gets overshadowed by the City of New York.  In talking to my fellow Upstaters, animosity can be heard in their voices as they describe the lack of attention that Upstate New York receives.  David Paterson’s selection of Caroline Kennedy would just be another slap in the face for Upstate New York, who has not had a Senator from their own back yard since 1909 (Good Ole, Elihu Root of Clinton, New York.)  The face that Upstate has not had one of their own represent them in the United States Senate for so long is just shameful, and now Governor Paterson has a chance to change that with his power of appointment.

Caroline Kennedy is someone who I agree with, alot, she is a very charismatic individual who quite possible has a bright future in the political scene.  However, the fact remains that her first political job should not be an appointment to the Senate. She is not qualified for this position. She has not served the people of New York in extensive enough of a manner to receive the appointment from Governor Paterson.  Whether deservedly or not, Governor Paterson’s popularity has plummeted in the Upstate region, and he would only be making the problem worse for himself if he does the wrong thing, and appoints Caroline Kennedy to the Senate.