Kennedy move deals blow to immigration reform plan
By Alexander Bolton
Posted: 12/08/08 08:07 PM [ET]


Sen. Edward Kennedy’s (D-Mass.) allies on immigration reform regard his departure from the Judiciary Committee as a withering blow to their cause and are searching for a new champion on the controversial issue.

Many are interpreting his decision to focus on healthcare as a setback to legislation that would put millions of illegal immigrants on a path to citizenship.

Kennedy’s own health has some speculating that the liberal icon sees healthcare as his best chance to augment his legacy while he battles brain cancer.

“I think it’s more than possible that he’s gotten a little older and has health issues himself and that’s hit home,â€