My condolences go out to Splash, Sunny and Cappy on the death of their companion, Sen. Edward Kennedy. Not only was the senator family, he opened some pretty important doors – including the one to the Oval Office – to the three Porties. Because of his sponsorship, they were firsthand witnesses to many moments of history.
The trio were trusted advisers and an integral part of the senator’s staff. He relied on them to break the ice, size up political nominees facing Senate confirmation, lower the stress levels in committee meetings, rearrange the landscaping and, most importantly, build bridges with the opposition. Kennedy was so impressed with the intelligence, abilities and loyalty of the Porties that he arranged for Splash to write a book and another Portie to become the first dog.
The Kennedy Porties, once as common a presence on Capitol Hill as the senator himself, have been absent for many months as they devoted their time to comforting him in the last short chapter of his life. Judging from media accounts, they have been sorely missed. They had a knack for letting staff know when a meeting had gone on too long and for keeping the inflated egos of Congress in check. Kennedy recognized their influence and encouraged it.
In opening doors for his dogs, Kennedy created opportunities for all Porties. So even though I disagreed with him on many issues, I’m the first to admit that the senator – and Splash, Sunny and Cappy – are the inspiration behind my congressional campaign.
Rest in peace, Senator, and may Splash, Sunny and Cappy be comforted as they mourn the death of a true friend and beloved family member.
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