Kennedy returns to Senate

By Susan Milligan, Globe Staff

WASHINGTON -- It was a solemn promise Ted Kennedy made to his colleagues and constituents more than four months ago at the Democratic National Convention: despite battling a malignant brain tumor, the 76-year-old senator would come back to the US Senate in January and dedicate himself to delivering healthcare plan that would cover all Americans.

Today, Kennedy fulfilled that pledge, making an emotional return to work, hugging longtime Senate friends, and welcoming the chamber's newest members on the first day of the 111th Congress.

Perched behind his seat in the rear of the chamber -- a coveted spot, since it is close to the doors to the Senate cloakroom, a well-looking Kennedy chuckled and chatted with fellow senators and staff. Except for the cane he now uses to walk, the Massachusetts lawmaker looked much like he did prior to his May diagnosis with a malignant glioma.

As is tradition, Kennedy walked Bay State colleague Senator John F. Kerry down the center aisle of the chamber when Kerry was sworn in to a fifth term. With Illinois lacking a second senator because Roland Burris was not seated, Kennedy also walked alongside his friend Senator Richard Durbin for the Democrat's swearing in as well.

"It was wonderful to be escorted down by him,'' a jubilant Kerry said after the ceremony. "It was so emotional. He really looked good. I'm fighting for him.''

Kennedy plans to keep a full schedule in the Senate, but may have to miss some events because he is still receiving treatment for his cancer, a spokeswoman said. The veteran lawmaker is devoting all of his time to crafting a national healthcare plan, a goal of his for more than four decades. Last year, Kennedy resigned his powerful position ion the Senate Judiciary Committee so he could focus all of his energies on the issue.