I am so sorry to hear of the death of Ted Kennedy. I know his family is feeling great loss at this time. Mr. Kennedy was a powerful figure in the political arena, but I have a question. Did he fairly represent the wishes of his constituents or was his and his family's legendary fame keep him in office for some 45+ years? Mr. Kennedy, the father, wanted his sons to become Presidents and guided them in pursuit of his dreams - not those of his sons. The father had built an empire and was a rich man. Through those sons, the Kennedy family attained political power never before experienced by one family in the American political arena. The boys made mistakes, but they were quickly covered up and made to go away. They were the American First Family of politics and must be protected.

If John Wayne had run for President, he most likely would have won. A larger than life figure on the screen, he was well known, his character was always the good guy, he represented what any woman would admire in a mate and was the idol of many a little boy. He was a known figure, but do we know how he would have performed in a different arena? Would he have made a good President - probably not, it wasn't his thing.

There are so many gifted, educated people in America. How do you choose? The choosing of which candidate can go forward must be done with careful consideration and a wary eye for the temperament of the American people. The political parties must be satisfied that the candidate is malleable and will conform to the issues, policies and practices of the party. The people must be satisfied that the candidate can make them believe they care for the rights of the citizens and will listen to their complaints and needs. Will the lobbyist be satisfied so their funds will keep pouring in to support the campaign process? There is so much to be analyzed, evaluated, investigated before the right person can be put forth.

I know many men and women I feel are extremely intelligent with good moral character and above normal social graces, but how would they perform in the political arena. Already many are looking for the man or woman to successfully challenge Mr. Obama in the next election. Will it be a high profile legislator? Will it be a common sense Governor who isn't ashamed of being human? Could a man or woman off the streets of Tennessee guide the people of the United States and stand tall and proud of America when dealing with foreign entities?

Again my sympathies go to the Kennedy family. Who will be the next first family of politics?