Voters react to Sen. Kerry nomination

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Senator John Kerry has represented Massachusetts in the Senate since 1985, but now he may be moving up to a bigger position.

President Obama has nominated Senator Kerry to succeed Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, who will be leaving the post next month. The Secretary of State oversees the State Department and primarily deals with foreign affairs. The President said Kerry's entire life has "prepared him for this role".

Senator Kerry's prospective new job comes as big news to many residents here in Commonwealth--especially considering how a special election would need to be held to fill his seat. However, this special election is something not many voters seem to be looking forward to.

" I am concerned about what happens now in Massachusetts to fill [Kerry's] Senate seat, given that we're all exhausted from elections....and I'm not looking forward to that battle", said Steven Benjins of Florence.

"I'm hoping--as a Progressive--to get another Democrat into office. It's a touchy thing, but hopefully we'll get somebody who's good for the job in office", said Mathondy Bostock of Belchertown.

However overall, many Democrats and Republicans in Massachusetts seem optimistic about Senator Kerry's new role.

" I think it's fantastic. He's a great Senator and he represents the party well...President Obama made a good choice. They'll make good partners...and it should help Massachusetts tremendously", said Anne Mcmanus of West Springfield.

"I like Kerry's track record. I like what he stands for....it seems like it'd be a good place for him to go. I would expect to see some good things out of that decision", said Bostock.

Governor Patrick said he has already begun talking to potential candidates to fill Kerry's seat temporarily, while the details are figured out about a special election.

At Senator Brown's election night party, he hinted that he may run for Senator Kerry's seat if it became open. Ted Kennedy Jr. is also considering the seat, according to CNN.