"At a time after the Cold War and America is now the sole world superpower, we have a Congress, half of whom don't have passports and brag in their districts that they do not travel outside the country. America is walking away from its responsibility and that has to change," Kerry said.

Kerry won plaudits for his candor.

"It was nice to see someone so genuine and sincere in his beliefs, even though it may have cost him the vice presidential nomination," said Venu Nadella '04.

Kerry, who was on Al Gore's short list for the vice presidential candidacy, told The Crimson afterward that he did not seek the position.

"It wasn't something I expected, but when I realized how real it was, I became excited about the potential challenge and chance to talk on a national basis," Kerry said. "I would hope that if I was a part of [the race], it wouldn't have been this close."

When asked about whether he would accept a position in a Gore Cabinet, Kerry responded, "That is a tough situation. The Senate is very tight this year."

"There would only be a few--maybe only one--Cabinet position I would consider and I don't see that in the cards," Kerry said. "I am focusing on my 2002 reelection now and we will see how this unfolds."

Kerry expressed his optimism about the upcoming session of Congress. The Nov. 7 election created a split of 50 Democrats and 50 Republicans in the Senate.