Wrinkle in Kennedy race as Khazei enters

A wildcard has joined the Democratic field in the special election for Ted Kennedy’s old Senate seat.

Businessman Alan Khazei has pulled papers for the race and is planning to enter it. Khazei is the co-founder of the nationwide community service organization for young people, City Year.

Khazei is the first real political outsider in the race, and he joins state Attorney General Martha Coakley and likely Rep. Michael Capuano.

“My wife, Vanessa, and I have been humbled by the outpouring of support we have received,” Khazei said in a statement. “I have entrusted a group of citizens to gather nomination papers today and begin the process necessary for this special election.”

Not much is known about Khazei, but he said he will have more to say in the coming days.

The other name to emerge in recent days has been Boston Celtics co-owner Stephen Pagliuca, who it appears is genuinely interested in the race.

UPDATE 2:04 p.m.: This post was updated to reflect Lynch's announcement that he would not run, and also Khazei's description. He is not wealthy enough to self-fund a campaign.