New York, NY —

Caroline Kennedy defended her decision to put herself in the running for the US Senate seat Hillary Clinton is likely to vacate.

KENNEDY: "I come at this as a mother, as a lawyer, as an author, as an education advocate and from a family that really has spent generations in public service and I feel this commitment, and this is a time when nobody can afford to sit out. And I hope that I have something to offer."

REPORTER: Kennedy spoke to reporters following a lunch with the Reverend Al Sharpton at the famous Harlem soul food restaurant, Sylvia's. Both Kennedy and Sharpton say they respect that the decision rests with Governor Paterson, who mentioned this afternoon that New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo has made it clear he wants to be considered for the seat as well.