BMG post by Kerry after Setti Warren's withdrawal from the Senate race

[Mass]

http://bluemassgroup.com/2011/09/setti-warren/

Some quick thoughts on something I know you’ve been discussing here today, Setti’s decision to end his campaign for the Senate.

First, I know it was a tough decision, but Setti showed a lot of guts and determination when he put himself on the line as a candidate in the first place, and he showed equal judgment, class, and sense of purpose in the way he ended that campaign today. People run for all kinds of different reasons, but I think all of us who ever have taken that plunge have huge respect afterwards for just what a commitment it is, and what it requires of your family, your friends, and those closest to you. We ought to thank folks who climb into the arena.

Second, just something about Setti because we’ve traveled a lot of miles together: He’s a special guy, who comes from a special family. I’ve seen him tested in life, in ways people know about and in ways Setti to his great credit doesn’t talk about much, but every time he’s been tested he’s demonstrated character, loyalty, and integrity. He’s got one hell of a “compass,” and if you knew his Dad then you know one of the reasons why.

Third, I can tell you that Setti cares deeply about Newton and his work as Mayor. He’s sat in the armchair in my office and talked to me about what it’s like to be Mayor and he just lights up talking about Newton in a way that frankly is more powerful than me just reciting his record. He’ll keep doing that job with all the heart, fire, leadership, pride, and energy that defines him.

Lastly, a lot of endings can be beginnings. In 1970, I pulled out of a race for Congress and backed Father Drinan instead because the cause was bigger than me, and in 1972 I ran in Lowell and got blistered and battered and knocked on my butt and man did I learn some lessons from it. Some people thought my career had ended before it began. But I put my head down and I did a job I came to love as Prosecutor in Middlesex County. Years later, I got another chance at elected office and I was a better candidate and better public person for lessons learned early. I don’t know what Setti’s future holds — that’s up to Setti and Tassy and life itself — but I know he’s an enormously talented, capable person — the sky’s always been the limit for Setti, and trust me, today it still is.

Classic Kerry, classy and everything.