Caroline Kennedy’s sudden withdrawal from consideration for the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Hillary Clinton might have reflected her realization that New York Gov. David Paterson was leaning in a different direction. Some news agencies had reported that the team responsible for vetting the candidates for Paterson had uncovered problems involving Kennedy’s taxes and a household employee. But Paterson made it clear on Thursday that “the decision to withdraw was entirely her own” and that it was not a reflection of any negative information he was aware of. Many of those close to the governor expressed surprise that Kennedy, the niece of Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) and daughter of the late President John F. Kennedy, had backed out of consideration, saying that she was a shoe-in for the job. Although she was unpopular among many New Yorkers, she enjoyed a large following among those who believed her family name provided all the clout needed to deliver the bacon for her constituents.

Looks like Caroline Kennedy, who many politicos seemed certain would be named to fill the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Hillary Clinton, has backed out. Polls have shown that Kennedy would have been an unpopular choice among New Yorkers. That reality, combined with the fact that Gov. David Paterson has assured that he is still in the interviewing stage, eroded the notion that Kennedy was a shoe-in for the slot. According to CNN, as of about 8 p.m. Wednesday, she had not yet informed New York Gov. David Paterson of her decision to withdraw. Kennedy is the 51-year-old daughter of President John F. Kennedy. Initially, she expressed her interest in being appointed to the junior senator spot, but her suggestion sparked widespread disapproval from many who said she lacked the political experience to hold such a weighty title. Others, however, were excited about the possibility of a Kennedy representing them, considering the clout that the name brings to the table. Caroline Kennedy’s decision coincides with the failing health of her uncle, Sen. Edward Kennedy, who collapsed on Tuesday during the Inauguration lunch. Kennedy was diagnosed with a deadly form of brain cancer in May, and he has been undergoing treatment.