NEW YORK - MS CAROLINE Kennedy, the only surviving child of slain US president John F. Kennedy, has confirmed her desire to enter the Senate, New York state's governor said on Monday.

Ms Kennedy said she was throwing her hat in the ring to replace Mrs Hillary Clinton, whose seat in the Senate will become vacant when she becomes secretary of state in Mr Barack Obama's administration.

'She told me she was interested in the position,' said Governor David Paterson, who is responsible for picking Mrs Clinton's temporary replacement.

The prospect of another member of America's legendary political family taking high office has excited many in New York. The soon-to-be vacant seat was once held by Ms Caroline Kennedy's uncle Robert F. Kennedy.

Some critics have cast Ms Kennedy as a socialite blessed with 24-karat connections and a legendary last name in US politics. She also is an attorney and author who until now has shunned the limelight.

Other would-be senators include New York state Attorney General Andrew Cuomo, former governor Mario Cuomo's son.

Mr Paterson says he will not announce a decision until Mrs Clinton's seat is vacated after Mr Obama takes over the White House on Jan 20. -- AFP