Who Would Kerry Pick?

Fall 2004
Boston Herald
Staff Writer

INCREDIBLY, we are told that already there are several Boston sources musing about who John Kerry might appoint as ambassador to Ireland if he manages to eke out a victory for the White House. The topic is much discussed in certain circles in Beantown, we are told.

Early favorite, at least, with the chattering classes, is Tom O'Neill, former lieutenant governor and son of Tip O'Neill. O'Neill has been very helpful to Kerry over the years.

Other Bostonians mentioned are advertising guru Jack Connors as well as David McCourt, head of RNC cable company and a wealthy supporter. Top Kerry advisor Bob Shrum, whose wife is deeply involved in Irish issues, may also be a contender.

Two things are certain. Kerry will not go outside his Massachusetts base for an ambassador to Ireland, and it will not be Ray Flynn, the former Boston mayor who has signed on for the Bush campaign despite being a very early supporter of Kerry during his first Senate race in 1982.

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