Mass. Gov. Picks Long-Time Kennedy Ally to Fill Vacant Senate Seat

Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick’s has appointed long-time Kennedy ally, Paul Kirk to the Senate to fill the vacancy created by the passing of Ted Kennedy. Although Kirk has never held public office and has no experience as a legislator (a regular theme in the Democrat Party these days) he is 71 years old. I find it interesting that the Dems have no problem with "new" senior politicians, seeing all the hooplah they spouted about Reagan and McCain.
Dying in office comments anyone?