NATIONAL BRIEFING / WASHINGTON, D.C.
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Former Democratic Party Chairman Paul G. Kirk Jr. has taken over for the late Edward M. Kennedy in the Senate.
Vice President Joe Biden swore Kirk in hours after a Massachusetts judge rejected a Republican request for a delay.
The GOP had argued that Democratic Gov. Deval Patrick exceeded his constitutional authority by appointing Kirk before a traditional 90-day legislative waiting period had expired. State lawmakers passed a bill this week giving Patrick the power to choose an interim senator.
Kirk gives Senate Democrats a filibuster-proof 60-vote majority with the healthcare fight at a crucial point.
He will serve in the interim post until voters pick a replacement in a special election Jan. 19.
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