Ayla Brown's dad dismisses report of 'American Idol 5' political tie

State Sen. Scott Brown, R-Boston, says his daughter's quest to become the next "American Idol" has no bearing on his political future.

Brown told the Boston Herald a published report saying he been erased from the list of potential lieutenant governor candidates because his daughter, Ayla, was competing on the Fox TV show "is the silliest story I have ever heard."

Brown is reported to be on the short list of running mates under consideration by Republican gubernatorial candidate Kerry Healey, the Herald said.

"I am sure that 'American Idol' has nothing to do with (Healey's) plans," Browns said.

Healey's campaign spokesman, Tim O'Brien, also denied the published report, the Herald said.

"It does not exclude him from the process, and we wish his daughter luck," O'Brien said.