Sir Ted's Knighthood - Unconstitutional?

Senator Edward Kennedy was awarded an honorary knighthood. Technically he is not allowed to use the "Sir" in front of his name which is reserved specifically for British knights. (More at http://news.aol.com/article/senator-edward-kennedy-knighted/368512.) The knighthood may technically be unconstitutional.

Article I Section 9 of the Constitution says; "No title of nobility shall be granted by the United States: and no person holding any office of profit or trust under them, shall, without the consent of the Congress, accept of any present, emolument, office, or title, of any kind whatever, from any king, prince, or foreign state."

Some constitutional academics said that out of an abundance of caution Kennedy should ask for Congressional approval. It is highly doubtful that such a request and subsequent vote would fail. I would think it would get almost unanimous approval if voted on.

If Kennedy cared enough to do so, he could argue that given Congress' knowledge of the Knighthood and lack of action, there may be implicit consent. Though, it seems unlikely that this will really go anywhere.

More at http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0309/19675.html.