Ailing Kennedy seeks law change on senate succession

Ailing Senator Edward Kennedy has asked Massachusetts politicians to change the law to allow the governor to appoint an interim replacement for his US Senate seat, should he be unable to continue serving.

Under state law, an election is required 145-160 days after a Senate seat becomes vacant. But that would temporarily leave Massachusetts without a voice in the Senate – and the Democrats potentially one vote short on any health care overhaul legislation.