Joan & Vicki Kennedy: The Liberal's Lionesses

(NEWSER) - Sen. Ted Kennedy's office wrote about 2,500 bills during his nearly half-century of service, points out the Boston Globe, more than 300 of which have become law. But when it comes to illustrating highlights, a picture speaks a thousand words. Click on the image box to the left for a slideshow. More»

(NEWSER) - Sen. Ted Kennedy, patriarch of one of the most powerful political dynasties in American history and long-time liberal lion of the Democratic Party, died late last night at his Massachusetts home in Hyannis Port, reports the New York Times. “We’ve lost the irreplaceable center of our family and joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever," said a statement from his family. Kennedy, 77, had been battling brain cancer for more than a year. More»

Family fighting over Lion's legacy

(NEWSER) - Ted Kennedy’s grim health prognosis has driven him to drink, according to Ted Kennedy: The Dream That Never Died, a new book from longtime Kennedy scribe Edward Klein. In an excerpt in Vanity Fair, Klein says Kennedy’s wife moved him to Florida after the seizure because his Hyannis friends were slipping him booze. Unnamed sources also say he was drinking the night before he collapsed on Inauguration Day. More»

Please finish 'the work of his life,' writes Victoria Kennedy

(NEWSER) - In an impassioned plea to Democratic senators threatening to vote against the health care reform bill, Victoria Reggie Kennedy begs them not to squander this opportunity because the bill isn't all they would like it to be. "Ted often said that we can't let the perfect be the enemy of the good," she writes, arguing that the bill, "while imperfect, would achieve many of the goals Ted fought for during the 40 years he championed access to quality, affordable health care for all Americans." More»

Senator inherits Kennedy's cause of health care reform

(NEWSER) - Jay Rockefeller shares little of the temperament of the late Ted Kennedy, but what they do share is essential. “Massive wealth and a virtual lock on his Senate seat frees a man to do what he believes in,” writes Margaret Carlson. And for both men—the West Virginia Democrat now more than ever—that means a dedication to health care reform. In his own teary, stubborn way, Rockefeller has assumed Teddy’s “health care mantle.” And like him, he is "unafraid to be liberal." More»