Washington, D.C. - Service Employees International Union (SEIU) President Andy Stern released the following statement after Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick appointed Paul G. Kirk Jr. to fill Sen. Ted Kennedy's seat until a special election on January 19, 2010.

"The Governor and the Legislature showed real leadership to move swiftly and ensure that one of Senator Kennedy's last requests is fulfilled and the Bay State has a full say in helping move America forward. Paul Kirk will be a strong voice for the hard working families and communities of the Commonwealth. Massachusetts needed more than a placeholder in the U.S. Senate and the Governor has given his citizens a leader who will get to work fighting for the change working families need on healthcare reform, rebuilding our economy, and providing new financial protections for consumers."