Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick (D) "huddled with a small group of trusted advisers last night" to finalize his choice for an interim U.S. senator, with indications pointing to former DNC chairman Paul Kirk Jr. "who has the strong backing of the immediate family of the late Edward M. Kennedy, as the overwhelming favorite," reports the Boston Globe.
The appointment is expected at 11 a.m. this morning.
Update: As expected, the Boston Globe confirms the pick was Kirk, who will take the oath of office on Friday.