Sen. Ted Kennedy released a statement early this morning that he will undergo surgery today at Duke University for treatment of his brain tumor. 

Statement from Sen. Edward M. Kennedy:

I’m deeply grateful to the people of Massachusetts, to my friends colleagues and so many others around the country and around the world who express their support.  I am humbled by the outpouring and strengthened by your prayers and kindness.  Over the pass several days, Vicky and I, along with my outstanding team of doctors at Massachussetts General Hospital, have consulted with experts from around the country and have decided that the best course of action for my brain tumor is targeted surgery followed by chemotherapy and radiation.

Sen. Kennedy says he looks forward to returning to the floor of the Senate as well as his role in Barack Obama’s presidential campaign.