Senator Edward Kennedy has been diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor, which privately a number of medical professionals I associate with had suspected because seizures in a man Kennedy's age with no previous history almost always point to that diagnosis.

There are lots of well wishes and expectations of hope because of Kennedy's willful nature, but its a tough haul for someone in the prime of their life. Considering his other health issues, I wouldn't expect the prognosis for recovery to be all that good.

The guy has made me furious, but I truly feel bad for him and his family. I hope things go the right way for them.

I think every family has a linchpin--someone who is the focus of common affection and really comes to represent the identity of the family--its values and aspirations. I suspect Ted Kennedy is that guy in the extended Kennedy family. For a family that has lost so many, losing Ted is almost an insult.

UPDATE: Harry Reid, Chris Dodd and John Kerry have made a public statement. Reid is pissing me off--he is monotone, and appears to be reading from notes. Chris Dodd is teary. John Kerry is not someone I normally expect emotional outbursts from, but he looks genuinely affected.