John Kerry’s new role as Secretary of State will open his Senate seat. A new WBUR poll conducted this week by MassINC shows about-to-be-former GOP Senator Scott Brown leading every potential Democratic Congress member who might vye for Kerry’s senate seat by 17- to 19 points–which may give many Democratic members second thoughts about running. (Brown lost his seat to Elizabeth Warren in November.) The most senior member of the Massachusetts delegation, Rep. Ed Markey, would be giving up a lot of seniority if he resigned to run. In Massachusetts, members have to resign their seats to run. A primary could occur in May, with a special election in June, assuming Kerry is confirmed quickly.Other possibilities include Senator Ted Kennedy’s elder son, Teddy Jr; he lives in Connecticut but could claim roots in Hyannis, Mass. Another name that has been mentioned is actor-director and political activist Ben Affleck, who grew up in Massachusetts. Affleck has said that he plans to stay politically active from outside Congress.
Andrea Mitchell
Andrea Mitchell is chief Washington correspondent and chief foreign affairs correspondent for NBC News. Recommended
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Kerry’s replacement: Scott Brown? Or maybe Ben Affleck!
John Kerry's new role as Secretary of State will open his Senate seat.
