Stephen Lynch Says No Decision Yet On Run For Kerry's Senate Seat
BOSTON (CBS/AP) - Congressman Stephen Lynch says he hasn't made up his mind yet about a run for John Kerry's U.S. Senate seat if Kerry is confirmed as Secretary of State.
The Boston Globe had reported Friday that sources close to Lynch said he would announce a run next week.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Lana Jones reports
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Then the congressman told the Boston Herald that was "false" but he didn't rule out the possibility of an announcement next week.
"If we can see a path to victory we'll take that chance," he told the Herald.
Lynch later told the Globe he hasn't made up his mind.
A source told The Associated Press Friday that Lynch plans to make the announcement next week. The person requested anonymity to avoid pre-empting the official announcement.
If he does run, there will be a Democratic primary in the special election.
Congressman Edward Markey has already announced he will seek the seat.
Markey, a Malden Democrat, has won the backing of top Democratic officials including Attorney General Martha Coakley and state Treasurer Steve Grossman. Kerry has also signaled his support.
Markey also had the early edge in money.
According the Federal Election Commission, Markey has $3,142,009 in his federal campaign account compared to Lynch's $740,412.
Former U.S. Sen. Scott Brown is considering running on the Republican side.
Kerry is expected to be confirmed as Secretary of State next week.
As for when Gov. Deval Patrick will appoint an interim senator to fill out Kerry's term?
"I'm close," he told WBZ NewsRadio 1030. "It was a long list of very capable folks. (Now) It's a shorter list of capable folks."
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