Edward Kennedy and Employment Law

The death of Senator Edward Kennedy marks the end of a political career like few others. Whether it marks an end to the Kennedy family’s enormous influence on politics and government remains to be seen.

Edward Kennedy’s personal conduct was, at times, reckless and reprehensible. His legislative ability over almost a half century in the U.S. Senate was effective and impressive. Though he was easily demonized by Republican detractors, he could be remarkably successful at working across the aisle to get a few Republican votes needed to pass a piece of legislation he had introduced or was supporting.

In the 20th century, the only elected official who comes close to having the overall impact on labor and employment law that Kennedy had during his lengthy tenure is, in my opinion, President Lyndon Johnson. Kennedy’s death leaves a hole in the Senate leadership President Obama needs to ramp up labor and employment legislation to new heights.

Much will appear in the media today and afterward about Edward Kennedy’s life and legacy. Whatever you thought of Kennedy, read this morning’s lengthy article on him in the New York Times. It does a good job of capturing Kennedy’s strengths and weaknesses, victories and tragedies, good works and bad deeds.

1. 

   ACU Frank says:

   August 26, 2009 at 10:37 am

   Ted Kennedy didn’t go to jail for Chappaquiddick, but he was certainly punished. As was the nation. Think about what might have been.