Governor /*Ruth Ann Minner*/ made the announcement during a Monday news conference.
"Today, after careful consideration, I'm pleased to announce Edward Kaufman to the United States Senate," Gov. Minner said.
His name and face may be unknown to those outside of political circles, but insiders say after serving 19 years as /*Joe Biden*/'s chief of staff, and serving as Biden's senior advisor since the mid 1990's, Governor Minner picked a man considered as close as family.
Almost as close was Biden's son Beau, who is currently serving a one year tour in Iraq, a tour he vowed to complete without asking for special consideration for his father's seat.
"I know there's been a lot of speculation about /*Beau Biden*/, our attorney general being appointed to this seat, and in truth I would have strongly considered him," Gov. Minner said.
"There are just so many good people in the state of Delaware, I was just surprised that the governor picked me," Kaufman said at Monday's event. "Surprised, but pleased."
Kaufman aded, he has no long-range political aspirations, unlike those of Minners presumptive pick, Lt. Governor /*John Carney*/, who made no secret of the fact he wanted the job.
Lt. Gov. Carney lost a razor-thin race to replace Minner as governor earlier this month.
"I'm confident retiring after two years. I do not think Delaware's appointed senator should spent the next two years running for office," said Kaufman.
Kaufman's decision not to seek election in 2010 leaves the door open for Beau Biden to run.
