US
(2009-08-18)
CHICAGO, IL
(wsiu) -
A son of the late Robert Kennedy says he won't run for the U.S. Senate seat once held by President Barack Obama.Chicago businessman Christopher Kennedy announced his decision Tuesday.
The seat Kennedy had been interested in is now held by Senator
Roland Burris, who was appointed by ousted former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich. Burris isn't seeking a full term.
In a statement, Kennedy said it was a tough decision to stay out of the race. He says he's become more aware of the enormous contributions someone can make in the U.S. Senate by watching his uncle, Massachusetts Senator Edward Kennedy. Kennedy is suffering from brain cancer.
Christopher Kennedy's absence from the race means a Democratic primary is shaping up between political rookie and Chicago Urban League head Cheryle Jackson and Illinois State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias.
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