Who said it first?

With all the buzz swirling about Caroline Kennedy and her growing likelihood of being appointed to replace Hillary Clinton in the U.S. Senate, we have to give ourselves a small pat on the back and remind whoever may be interested that we predicted it first. Our Not 4 Publication column of Dec. 4 (written Nov. 29) may have been the first place where Kennedy's name was thrown into the fray.

"However, we like the dark-horse pick of his first cousin, Carolyn Kennedy. An early Obama supporter and member of the Obama Veep selection panel, she had been mentioned for UN Ambassador. She is a New Yorker, a woman and extremely electable. She likely would bring to Paterson more positive publicity than any other on the list. The daughter of JFK emerged as a national figure during the Obama campaign and is the likely person to carry on the family’s Senate legacy with the illness to Uncle Teddy."

Velasquez Is Out

Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez today spoke with Governor David Paterson and informed him that she is not interested in being appointed to fill the vacancy in the U.S. Senate caused by Senator Hillary Clinton becoming the Secretary of State. Rep. Velázquez indicated that she has confidence that he will make his choice based on what will be best for New York State. For his part, the Governor asked her to join the committee that is advising him in the selection process.

“My friend Hillary Clinton has done an outstanding job for New York in the Senate, and will go on to be an exceptional Secretary of State. Our state is fortunate to have many capable, experienced individuals who would serve our state well as her replacement. While I have been proud and humbled to be considered, I have decided to stay as a senior member of the House of Representatives, Chair of the Small Business Committee, and Chair of the Hispanic Caucus.

Going forward, I will keep advocating for more Hispanics in statewide office. With Latinos making up over 16 percent of New York’s population, and that number expected to grow – increased representation, at all levels, is paramount to reflect the changing face of our state. Governor Paterson has my full backing as he makes his decision, and I will give my support and counsel to help our next Senator achieve success for New York.”

Introducing Senator (fill in the blank)

With Hillary Clinton getting the nod as Barack Obama's Secretary of State, the question of who will replace her is at the forefront of political discussion. There is a wide field of possible contenders, as reported in this week's Not For Publication, and at least one name on the list, U.S. Rep. Carolyn Maloney, said she would be honored if chosen.

The Discussion Begins

Suppose Senator Clinton Got a Cabinet Post ...

By JEREMY W. PETERS

Published: November 15, 2008

Word that Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton was a contender to become President-elect Barack Obama’s secretary of state set off speculation in New York about who could replace her. (New York Times)