Kennedy's departure sets off RI political scramble

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - Rep. Patrick Kennedy's announcement that he will not seek reelection has set off a mad scramble among Rhode Island politicians eager for a chance at an open seat in Congress.

The jockeying was especially intense since Kennedy's political power and fundraising allowed him to trounce challengers and discourage competitors.

Kennedy told FOX25's Sharman Sacchetti that it was, "A long process," coming to the decision not to run for reelection.  He said, "It's just a chance for me to move on and have a new chapter in my life, my personal life."

The candidates already include Republican state Rep. John Loughlin. Democratic state Rep. Jon Brien, a conservative, said Friday he would also mount a challenge. Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis said he's considering running.

Friends and associates of Providence Mayor David Cicilline and former Congressman Robert Weygand have told The Associated Press, on condition of anonymity, that the two Democrats are also seriously considering running for Kennedy's seat.