Politics & Government

John Kerry Confirmed as Secretary of State

Kerry has reportedly handed in his Senate resignation to Gov. Deval Patrick, effective Friday.

With only three dissenting votes, the U.S. Senate has confirmed John Kerry as the new Secretary of State.

Kerry will take over for Hillary Clinton, who is leaving her post after four years.

The move means Kerry will have to resign as Massachusetts' senior senator. According to a Tweet from WCVB political reporter Janet Wu, Kerry's resignation has reportedly been sent to Gov. Deval Patrick and is effective as of 4 p.m. Friday.

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Kerry's resignation now paves the way for a special senate election. The primary election is scheduled for April 30 and the general election will be held on June 25. 

To date, U.S. Congressman Ed Markey has announced he is running and U.S. Congressman Stephen Lynch is reportedly planning a run. Both are Democrats; no Republican has yet announced.

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As for an interim senator for Kerry's seat, Patrick plans to announce his pick on Wednesday, Jan. 30, according to the Boston Herald.

According to the local Village 14 blog, Kerry attended the Fessenden School in West Newton.


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