Kerry run in '08 called conceivable

While Senator John F. Kerry is "profoundly disappointed" with losing his presidential race last week, it is "conceivable" he will run again in four years, his brother and political confidant, Cameron F. Kerry, said yesterday.

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In the meantime, the former Democratic nominee will work through the Senate and perhaps a newly formed political action committee to ensure that Democrats have a superior ground organization in 2008, his younger brother said.

"He's in a position of national leadership," Cameron F. Kerry told the Globe. A Boston lawyer, the younger Kerry said he spoke with his brother several times in person and by phone about the senator's political future since the candidate conceded defeat Wednesday. "He's going to exercise that role and be a voice for the 55 million people who voted for him. The position he's in gives him a bully pulpit."

He added, "One of the things that John brings out of this campaign is a tremendous number of people have gotten organized, and that's something we've got to build upon."

Asked whether that might include another run for president, the younger brother replied: "That's conceivable. . . . I don't know why that [last week's loss] should necessarily be it. I think it's too early to assess. But I think that he is going to continue to fight on for the values, ideals, and issues this campaign is about."

The senator has not granted an interview since he conceded the race to President Bush. He was in Washington yesterday, but out of public view.

Kerry's Senate communications director, David Wade, said: "John Kerry has been touched by the outpouring of support and enthusiasm in Massachusetts and around the country. There are millions upon millions of Americans who want the same change for our country that he fought for, and he has a voice in the Senate and nationally to champion these causes."

Asked whether Kerry was considering another presidential run, Wade said: "He has a job to do for Massachusetts in the United States Senate and issues to champion nationally. That's his focus."

Former aides said they have received conflicting answers about whether he might wage another campaign. One, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said Kerry told a top campaign official he could not envision another run. Yet that same adviser attended a farewell party for Kerry's staff Saturday night in Washington and said Kerry told the crowd, "There's always another four years."

The remark triggered an eruption of cheers.

Such a run could pose a dilemma for Kerry: His Senate seat is up for reelection in 2008, and talk of a presidential campaign could spur challengers from both parties and force him to decide whether to seek reelection or run for the White House. He also would undoubtedly face Democratic challengers for the presidential nomination, including possibly Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton of New York and his recent running mate, Senator John Edwards of North Carolina.   Continued...