The Legacy of Senator Kennedy
Kennedy's Passing Sparks a Range of Memories
The 77-year-old Democrat was the last of the four famous Kennedy sons and the leading Senate advocate for the liberal political agenda.
Known as one of the last "pure liberals," his friendships crossed the aisle. Republican Orrin Hatch wrote a song for Kennedy and conservative columnist Cal Thomas said, "We don't agree on many issues, but I like him. He's very personable."
Conservative Senator Sam Brownback remembers Senator Kennedy as a genuine advocate for minorities and the less fortunate.
His Career
Kennedy first ran for the U. S. Senate in 1962 and was re-elected easily in 1968. Yet his first round of health care initiatives began to germinate in 1964.
His lifetime fascination with health care reform got is big boost after he broke his back in a 1967 plane crash. NPR reported that Senator Kennedy said, "I'm getting this excellent care because I'm a Senator. But what about the care ordinary Americans receive?"
The healthcare advocate part of Kennedy's legacy was reflected in his Medal of Freedom award citation. President Obama said Kennedy was, "one of the "great lawmakers and leaders of our time."
“He has worked tirelessly to ensure that every American has access to quality and affordable healthcare, and has succeeded in doing so for countless children, seniors, and Americans with disabilities,’’ the award statement also said.
Yet the Senator's legacy will not be fondly remembered in the hearts of everyone. Many will remember him as a tireless advocate of federally funded abortion on demand.
Chris Slattery is the founder of Expectant Mother Care, the largest group of pro-life crisis pregnancy centres in the Eastern United States and he says abortion is very much a part of the Kennedy supported health care reform measure.
"The health care bills include abortion under euphemistic language. The loopholes are as big as a Mack Truck," Slattery said.
"Obama has promised Planned Parenthood and NARAL that he will include abortion in the bill and it was a big thing for Ted Kennedy."
Slattery and a group of pro-life advocates are planning a series of vigils and rallies to protest the abortion provisions in the health care bill.
The Last Few Weeks
Senator Kennedy's illness prevented him from making the August 12 ceremony. Kennedy's daughter Kara accepted the award on his behalf.
A statement released by the family said, "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."
CNN and other major news outlets report that the funeral for the Senator will be Saturday and that he will be buried near his brothers in Arlington National Cemetery.
Senator Kennedy at a political rally.
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