By David Abel and Andrew Ryan, Globe Staff
HYANNIS PORT -- US Senator Edward M. Kennedy will not give the commencement speech Sunday at Wesleyan University, but he has found a replacement who will also make headlines -- Barack Obama.
"Considering what he's done for me and for our country, there's nothing I wouldn't do for him," Obama, an Illinois senator and Democratic presidential candidate, said in a statement. "So I'm looking forward to standing in his place on Sunday even though I know I won't be able to fill his shoes."
Before the official announcement, Kennedy was coy when he spoke to reporters on a dock as he was heading out for an afternoon sail on his 50-foot schooner.
"I think it's unlikely," Kennedy said when asked whether he would give the speech.
A few minutes later, Kennedy's office issued a statement that said Obama would be giving the speech in his place, calling it "an historic opportunity for the school and all those attending." Kennedy's stepdaughter, Caroline Raclin, will be graduating from Wesleyan on Sunday and his son, Teddy Jr., will be in attendance.
The possibility of Obama delivering the graduation speech at Wesleyan first arose when Obama and Kennedy talked by telephone last Sunday, according to those familiar with the plans. Obama offered his help in whatever way he could; Kennedy apparently had an idea.
The Kennedy side followed up today, initiating a call to Obama, and the two senators talked directly about Obama delivering the speech. Obama immediately accepted the invitation.
Kennedy has no plans to attend the graduation ceremonies, which would involve a full day of travel, according to those familiar with his plans.
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