There is the "favorite son" thing. A local politician who achieves national prominence has an edge over challengers.
I always thought Kerry was an empty suit, mouthing liberal pieties to promote his personal obsession with power and attention. (Not an uncommon trait in politicians of any stripe.)
Even local Democratic pols know that J-F-K stands for "just for Kerry."
Hills competition is biting the dust.
John Edwards is next,,he best watch his back but that should be no problem given he has a mirror all the time whilst doing his pompadour.