Moakley's Death Opens South Boston Seat

B O S T O N, May 29 -- The death of U.S. Rep. Joseph Moakley could launchanother Kennedy into Massachusetts' politics.

Robert F. Kennedy's son, Max Kennedy, is considering a run forthe South Boston Democrat's seat in a special election. Kennedy made a less-than-impressive debut earlier this monthwhen he giggled and stumbled through a speech, and an election losswould bring an end to the family's century-long winning streak inBay State politics. Unlike his uncle, U.S. Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, who cruised tore-election last year, Max Kennedy would face tough competitionfrom fellow Democrats with strong ties to the district.

Several Possible Contenders

One possible opponent is Democratic state Sen. Stephen Lynch,who hails from the same South Boston neighborhood as Moakley andhas strong ties to organized labor. Two other state senators are also weighing runs. State Sen. Brian Joyce, D-Milton, has filed papers with theFederal Elections Commission. Sen. Marc Pacheco, D-Taunton, said he also plans to create anexploratory committee "at the appropriate time." Another possible candidate is Democratic Boston City CouncilorStephen Murphy. Any Republican jumping into the race would face an uphillbattle. The heavily Democratic 9th district includes much of thecity of Boston as well as suburbs to the west and south. All ofMassachusetts' congressional seats are currently held by Democrats. Former radio talk show host Janet Jeghelian, a Republican, wassoundly defeated by Moakley in 2000 after running a lacklustercampaign. None of the potential candidates wanted to talk about thespecial election yesterday, saying they wanted the focus to be onMoakley. "I think those questions regarding the campaign are probablyquestions for another day," Lynch said.

No Date Yet for Special Election

Moakley spoke with some of his potential successors, includingLynch, Pacheco and Kennedy, after announcing his illness. He didnot publicly endorse anyone. "He was realistic about the politics. He was a successfulpracticing politician who understood that people would move tosucceed him," said Massachusetts Democratic Party Chairman PhilipJohnston. "I don't think he favored one candidate over another."