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Kennedy family members to endorse Coakley

E-mail|Link|Comments () January 6, 2010 04:54 PM

By Globe Staff

Victoria Reggie Kennedy, the widow of the late US Senator Edward M. Kennedy, and other members of the Kennedy clan will endorse Attorney General Martha Coakley Thursday in the race to fill the long-time lawmaker's seat, Coakley's campaign said today.

Victoria Reggie Kennedy

Senator Paul G. Kirk, a long-time Kennedy family friend who was appointed to serve as senator until the Jan. 19 special election, and former US Representative Joseph P. Kennedy II, Kennedy's nephew, also will endorse Coakley, the campaign said.

"Senator Kennedy was one of our nation's greatest advocates for justice, equality, and those less fortunate," Coakley said in a statement. "It is incredibly humbling to receive the support of the members of the Kennedy family as well as Senator Kirk."

Coakley, a Medford Democrat, is vying with state Senator Scott Brown, a Wrentham Republican, in the election. Independent Joseph L. Kennedy, who is not related to the legendary political family, is also running.

Joseph Kennedy III, the former congressman's son, will also endorse Coakley, the campaign said.

The event, during which the Kennedy family members will discuss the need for national health care reform, will be held at the Medford Senior Center.

Coakley said she could not fill the shoes of the late senator, the legendary liberal lion of the Senate, but "I will work every day to follow in his footsteps and fight for issues such as meaningful health care reform and equal rights for all."