Mondello: Kennedy Simply Not Qualified

As the daughter of one of our nation's most popular Presidents, Caroline Kennedy holds a special place in the hearts of many Americans. However, her self-promotional trip today will not make her any more qualified to be United States Senator than she was yesterday.

She simply has no experience, and her appointment would be a glamour selection when what New Yorkers really need is a fighter who knows first hand the challenges facing working families today.

A seat in the United States Senate isn't something you inherit it's something you earn through years of dedicated public service. New Yorkers are suffering during tough economic times, our representatives in Washington must be tough, experienced public servants who work tirelessly to deliver real results. This is simply not the time for anyone who needs on the job training to take on such grave responsibilities.

I renew my calls on Governor Paterson to do a thorough, public search of all the available candidates and select the person most qualified based on experience-- not genealogy.

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