Washington, D.C. - Service Employees International Union (SEIU) President Andy Stern released the following statement after the Massachusetts State Legislature voted to allow Gov. Deval Patrick to appoint a successor fill Sen. Ted Kennedy's seat until a special election on January 19, 2010.

"One of Senator Kennedy's last requests was that Massachusetts would continue to have a full voice in the U.S. Senate after his passing. Senate President Murray, Speaker DeLeo and the Massachusetts State Legislature have shown real leadership by passing legislation allowing Governor Patrick to appoint a temporary replacement. Now it is time for the Governor to appoint someone who will fight for the change working families need on healthcare reform, rebuilding our economy, and providing new financial protections for consumers.

"We are right now closer than ever to creating what Senator Kennedy called the cause of his life: the guarantee that every America 'will have decent, quality health care as a fundamental right and not just a privilege.' While nobody can fully replace Senator Kennedy, we believe his memory is best honored by swiftly appointing a Senator who will continue his long and strong support of the hard working families and communities of the Commonwealth."