Ted Kennedy, RIP

Long-time liberal Senator Edward "Ted" Kennedy passed away last night, succumbing to the brain tumor that has plagued his health for the past year or so.

I have to say it's been interesting to watch the statements about him coming out.  You've got the obvious fawning from the Left, calling him one of the greatest Senators of our time and more, and many kind statements from the Right side of the aisle, too.  There is no doubt he's had a big influence on the direction of America in many ways, but whether that's for good or ill probably depends on your political orientation.  Some are issuing reserved salutations, pointing out that he, like the rest of us, had both flaws and fine points, which seems safe and respectable enough.  However, I've seen several who have felt no such compunction, bashing him for many things, especially the Mary Jo Kopechne non-scandal. 

As is sadly predictable, Kennedy's death will inevitably be used for political gain.  One Righty blogger quickly posed the question of who would win the race to officially politicize his death first.  The winner, naturally, was Nancy Pelosi, who is as shameless as she is incompetent, though many quickly followed her - there are lots of calls to rename Obamacare to the Kennedy Memorial Health Care Bill, or something like that (but we'll discuss that more in another post).  The Anchoress writes a thoughtful and wide ranging piece on Kennedy's passing that is worth checking out, for the encouraged introspection if nothing else, but also for links to a huge roundup of reactions.  Mostly, though, I really like how Michelle Malkin sums up so much in so few words:

The U.S. Senator from Massachusetts succumbed to brain cancer at the age of 77 tonight. Put aside your ideological differences for an appropriate moment and mark this passing with solemnity.

There is a time and place for political analysis and criticism. Not now.

Yes, there will be a nauseating excess of MSM hagiographies and lionizations — and crass calls to pass the health care takeover to memorialize his death.

That's no excuse to demonstrate the same lack of restraint in the other direction. Not now.

I think this is the correct course.  For good or ill, Kennedy accomplished a great deal and was known by many.  While some will attempt to shamelessly profit from his life and death to promote their own agenda, let's keep in mind that his was an eternal soul just like ours, and that his family is grieving right now.  Act classy.

Thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

There's my two cents.