Patrick Says Frank Is “On The List”

Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick says newly-retired Rep. Barney Frank would make a ``great interim senator'' but adds that he has also talked to other people about filling the post.

Frank told The Associated Press that he asked Patrick earlier in the week to appoint him to serve as a temporary successor to Sen. John Kerry, who has been nominated as secretary of state.

Frank says he is ``well-suited'' for the job because he is already familiar with pressing issues before Congress.  If Kerry is confirmed, the Democratic governor would name an interim senator until a special election is held in about five months.

Patrick calls Frank a ``gifted legislator'' and says he is ``on the list'' for the temporary post.  Frank, a Democrat, served in the House for more than 30 years until his retirement this week. (Associated Press)