Kennedy calls Brown campaign a joke

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI)- - Rep. Patrick Kennedy is calling Republican Scott Brown's candidacy a "joke," and says he expects the new Massachusetts senator will vote against the interests of union members who supported his campaign.

The Hill's Blog Briefing Room reports the Rhode Island Democrat made the comments Thursday when Brown was sworn in for the seat held by Kennedy's late father, Edward Kennedy.

A Kennedy spokeswoman declined comment Friday.

A spokesman for Brown said Friday he "won't be sidetracked by negative partisan attacks."

Brown was sworn in a week earlier than he had planned. He immediately faced questions whether he will vote with the GOP in the partisan fight over President Barack Obama's choice of union attorney Craig Becker for a top labor job. A vote could come Monday.

Brown said Thursday he was undecided on the vote.