AP: Caroline Kennedy Withdraws Senate Bid

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) – Published reports say Caroline Kennedy is withdrawing her bid to join the U.S. Senate in the seat once held by her uncle, slain Sen. Bobby Kennedy.

The news is a shock to supporters and to New York Gov. David Paterson, who has said he hopes to make an appointment by the weekend.

Citing personal reasons, Kennedy ended her monthlong bid to succeed Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, who was confirmed as secretary of state Wednesday.

Kennedy’s uncle, Sen. Edward Kennedy of Massachusetts, suffered a seizure Tuesday at the inauguration of President Barack Obama. He has been treated for an aggressive brain tumor,

Her withdrawal was first reported by the New York Post.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)