Seapower Vacuum

The death of Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-MA) leaves a vacancy on the Senate Armed Services Committee -- and, most notably, atop the seapower subcommittee.

Kennedy joined the panel in 1983. With his passing, the seapower subcommittee, which he has chaired, will need a new leader.

Next in line is Sen. Joseph Lieberman (I-CT), the chairman of the airland subcommittee. After him comes Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI), who chairs emerging threats and capabilities.