Barack Obama announced that he'll be filling in for Edward Kennedy, the 76-year-old senator who was diagnosed this week with a malignant brain tumor. Kennedy's stepdaughter is graduating Wesleyan '08. He'll still attend the ceremony, but isn't up to the oratorical task.

"I’m looking forward to standing in his place on Sunday, even though I know I won’t be able to fill his shoes," Obama said of Kennedy. Kennedy's office called the speech a "historic opportunity" for Obama.

Just another favor among politicians -- but not a lobbyist to be seen! Snarkiness aside, kudos to Obama for stepping up for his friend. Maybe it'll win him some Hillary supporters at Wes...