In other news from Washington, Democratic Senator Edward Kennedy of Massachusetts has been diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. Kennedy has been hospitalized in Boston since suffering a seizure over the weekend. He will likely undergo chemotherapy. Experts say the type of tumor, glioma, is highly lethal and usually claims the patient’s life within three years. On Tuesday, Kennedy drew praise from congressional colleagues on both sides of the aisle. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Kennedy is a champion of the underprivileged.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi: “Senator Kennedy has been a fighter all his life. He is a fighter, a fighter for our children, for our workers, for our seniors. He is a champion fighting for healthcare for all Americans. I know that that fighting spirit will hold him in good stead in the challenge that he faces now. I know I speak for all of my colleagues when I say that our prayers and thoughts and
good wishes are with Senator Kennedy.”

Kennedy has served in the Senate since 1962.