Dear Governor Paterson,

I’m writing to inform you that I am interested in being considered for the Senate seat that will soon be vacated by Senator Hillary Clinton.

I’ve just read former Governor Madeleine Kunin’s article in the Huffington Post, describing "The Political Growth and Power of Caroline Kennedy", where Ms. Kunin notes that Ms. Kennedy has asked to be considered for the position, rather than "waiting to be asked, as some women tend to do." I’ve decided that I, too, will ask, rather than wait.

Ms. Kunin also notes that Ms. Kennedy is "bright and articulate". I think that I would also fit those criteria. Ms. Kunin’s objections to the idea that Ms. Kennedy’s time raising children, being involved with New York City schools and writing books are not serious qualifications for public office are, I believe, valid. I have also raised children, and have been actively involved with New York City public schools, my children having actually attended them, and feel that this definitely qualifies me for public office at the highest level.

Like Ms. Kennedy, I, too, have been a prolific writer; in my case, in the field of psychoanalysis (yes, I did work outside of the home, but hope that doesn’t disqualify me for the position. My children will attest to the fact that I’ve been a good mother, relatively speaking). I have been more outspoken than Ms. Kennedy, having written rather extensively on political issues, and having taken part in countless protest actions against racial discrimination, the Vietnam and Iraq wars, and for a woman’s right to choose, among other issues. I have also voted in all elections since the time I came of voting age, unlike Ms. Kennedy, who, according to the New York Times, has not voted in 38 contested elections since 1988.

I know that New Yorkers don’t know much about me, but a quick Google search should provide enough information about my background to allow you, Governor Paterson, to make an informed choice. Like Ms. Kennedy, I have been a New Yorker all my life, have raised money (albeit not as much) for worthy causes, and, as Ms. Kunin states about Ms. Kennedy, just because I am attractive (although, admittedly, in a more "mature" way than Ms. Kennedy), one shouldn’t assume that I don’t have the grit to run a tough campaign.

I hope that you will take all this into account, and seriously consider me for the open Senate seat.

Respectfully yours,
Barbara Cohn Schlachet, Ph.D.