
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. -- Senator John Kerry will be sworn-in as the next Secretary of State Friday.
But, before starting his new job, he traveled across Massachusetts to see the people he's represented for nearly three decades.
Kerry made several stops in his day-long "thank-you tour" Thursday.
His first stop was in Springfield, where he spoke with supporters and local officials.
Kerry said he's not saying goodbye, but rather starting a new chapter.
"You have given me the privilege of a lifetime to represent this extraordinary commonwealth of Massachusetts as a United States senator. I can't think of any better work, better job, better opportunity and I just wanted to come out here and say thank you."
Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick has chosen former aide William "Mo" Cowan to replace Kerry in the senate until after a special election in June.