The Catalyst

By Kate Schwenke, Managing and News Editor

America mourned the loss of one of its finest this past week. Flags flew at half mast Saturday to commemorate the passing of Senator Edward “Ted” Kennedy (D-MA), who died of brain cancer on August 25. Kennedy served in the Senate for forty-seven years (1962-2009) under 10 presidents, including his brother, John. He is the third-longest serving Senator in history. Known for his ability to “reach across the aisle” and compromise with his opponents, he was a father figure in Congress. Many “freshman” Senators would seek refuge and advice in Kennedy’s office, including now-President Barack Obama. He was also known as the “bulldog” of the Senate, and penned more legislation than any other Senator, past or present. Among his greatest accomplishments are the Meals on Wheels program for senior citizens, increasing the minimum wage in 1981, and decreasing the voting age from 21 to 18. Although he came from an observant Catholic family, Kennedy strayed from the Church’s teachings when it came to issues including gay rights and abortion. He often lobbied for the legalization of gay marriage before it became a hot button issue, and argued against many laws illegalizing abortions.

Kennedy made a run for the presidency in 1980, but lost the nomination to then-President Carter. Many believe he never had a shot because of the Chappaquiddick Scandal, which had occurred eleven years earlier and left one woman dead. Also, when asked why he wanted to be President, Kennedy could not come up with a passable answer.

Ted Kennedy was the last of the dynamic political family from the 1960’s. His was preceded by his brothers John and Robert, who were both lost to assassin’s bullets. Kennedy raised both his brothers’ children as well as his own. He leaves behind two sons and a daughter, as wells as many nieces and nephews. Kennedy was laid to rest August 29, 2009 in Arlington National Cemetery after laying four days in repose at our nation’s capitol. He will rest eternally next to both his brothers, as well as the eternal flame.