Edward M. Kennedy

Massachusetts Lion of the Senate whose 46 years produced landmark laws on health, education, and civil rights.

Overview

The youngest Kennedy brother took his Senate seat in 1962 and served until his death in 2009, becoming the third-longest-serving senator to that point. His legislative reach included the 1965 immigration act, COBRA and HIPAA health protections, the Children's Health Insurance Program with Orrin Hatch, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Meals on Wheels, and No Child Left Behind with George W. Bush. Known for bipartisan partners across decades, he also ran for president in 1980 against incumbent Carter. His vaulted status as liberal champion survived personal scandals that once seemed fatal, and his final battle was for health care reform.