As a lifetime senator, Mr Monti cannot run for office but can take part in an election campaign and can return to the post of prime minister if asked by a party or coalition.

BBC: Vatican paper backs Mario Monti's Italy leadership bid

Edward "Ted" Kennedy may have been 77 years old, but he embodied the spirit, determination and core values of my generation -- the millenials -- in a way that no other senator has in our lifetime.

CNN: Commentary: Ted Kennedy's causes resonate with youth