When I interned in the Senate back in the '80s, I was privileged to meet Ted Kennedy and work with his staffers on the Senate Subcommittee on Immigration and Refugee Policy.Kennedy was outnumbered in the Senate at the time, which was then dominated by the Reagan Republicans.
But he never let up.
He was the Democratic liberal standard-bearer then...and he has been ever since. He was there for fair immigration and refugee policies when Republicans at the time were preaching their never-ending gospel of fear...it's the same fear-mongering tactic they are using today on health care.
Of all the people I worked with in Washington, my fondest memories and deepest respect went to Kennedy and his team. He and his staff have been the conscience of the Senate for years.
Just saying thank you for his life of service seems so small an offering...until you reflect on the fact that there are millions of us offering thanks and respect. In the next three days we will honor him in Boston and the size of the gatherings will testify to our thunderous thanks.
Ted Kennedy made so many things possible and believed so steadfastly in our government and our better selves - it's incumbent upon us to keep his spirit alive.
It was tough times for Kennedy and Dems back in the 80s...remember?
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