Ted Kennedy has Died

The Liberal Lion of the Senate, one of the most respected members of that body, died last night at the age of 77. His ability to pass legislation and get things done while working with Republicans made him one of the best legislators and figures in the Senate. He will be missed.

Now, there are interesting political implications. Kennedy's life goal was to achieve Universal Health Care, and he died right before we have an opportunity to pass it. Failure to unify on one bill and message effectively is inexcusable and not only cheats Americans out of their right to Health Care, but also dishonors his memory. There really is no reason that we should fail in this goal.

Kennedy's death also leaves his Senate seat empty. Because of his illness, he had not been at the Capital since April, and thus had not been a Democratic vote to break filibusters. With his death, his seat is technically at risk, but this being Massachusetts we're talking about, the only question is how long until his replacement arrives.

What does everyone else think?