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Governor Spitzer Inevitable? Are High Taxes Too?
October 5th, 2006

In the New York Post, Nicole Gelinas writes: �New York voters who accept the in evitability of an Eliot Spitzer governorship risk creating a second inevitability: that the state will continue to limp along hobbled by some of the highest income taxes in the nation. Spitzer's opponent, John Faso, offers at least a faint hope of altering that course.� She then goes on to criticize both candidates� tax proposals, but argues that the Republican candidate�s plan �at least addresses one of the state's biggest problems: its job-killing income taxes. Plus, any flaw can be addressed in the course of a rigorous debate. Unfortunately, Spitzer has had nothing to say on the issue – so there has been no such debate.�

By on October 5, 2006, 5:27 am
In category: Albany,Electoral Politics,Public Finance | 1 Comment »

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Faso vs. Spitzer
September 27th, 2006

Be as cynical as you want about the allegedly one-sided nature of the race for governor, but, as these things go, last night�s debate between the two major party contenders got generally good reviews.

Sure there were the standard reactions. "At this point, Republican whatshisname could probably promise every New Yorker a personal back rub and still lose by a landslide," said the Daily Gotham, while from the other side,
New York Young Republican Record concluded," Eliot performed much as expected: snide comments and asides, and lots of pie-in-the-sky ideas with no realistic plan to implement them� Faso had a couple of painful missteps early on, but he recovered well, and did a good job of poking holes in Spitzer's rhetoric."

But many commentators praised both men.

"If you were looking for zingers, the first gubernatorial debate delivered them in bunches," writes columnist Lawrence Levy in Newsday. "But any voter who decided to tune in last night also saw lively and illuminating exchanges that revealed much about these two very different men with (mostly) very different ideas. That they also managed to be pointed but not personal, aggressive but not nasty, made the debate at Cornell University especially appealing. It makes you wish this were a close race."

ICGayBlog was similarly impressed: "Edged attacks, wry humor and sharp differences on issues from taxes and state government corruption to gay marriage and abortion brought a Cornell audience, and viewers across the state, a lively first gubernatorial debate."

"Generally it struck me as a pretty good debate," concluded Daily Politics. "Both of them think they're too smart for talking points and consultants and it makes for interesting watching, if not perfect sound bytes."

By Gail Robinson on September 27, 2006, 2:13 pm
In category: Albany,Electoral Politics,Gotham City | 1 Comment »

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Spitzer�s Victory
September 13th, 2006

Eliot Spitzer�s resounding victory in yesterday�s primary — and his lead in the polls over Republican John Faso �reflect the fact that New Yorkers are fed up and looking for the candidate with the most promise to banish the Pataki-Silver-Bruno Axis of Feeble,� that has ruled Albany,� the Daily News says in its post-election editorial. But Spitzer is not governor yet. So between now and the November 7 general election, the paper calls for debates between the two candidates and for Spitzer to �give more specifics on issues, such as how he will resolve the lawsuit over funding for the city schools and control the soaring cost of public employee pensions.�

Appearing on WNYC�s Brian Lehrer Show this morning, Village Voice columnist Wayne Barrett seemed awed by the sheer size of the Spitzer victory. In November, Barrett thinks, Spitzer �could get the greatest mandate of any governor in our lifetime.�

But Barrett sees a cloud — in the person of Andrew Cuomo who will share the Democratic ticket with Spitzer as the party�s candidate for attorney general. Cuomo won his lopsided victory partly due to the support of Service Employees Union 1199, which represents health care workers. Cuomo owes those workers, but if Spitzer is elected, Barrett believes he must cut Medicaid spending, perhaps adversely affecting those same workers. The result? Spitzer and Cuomo. Barrett predicts, could be �on a collision course.�

By Gail Robinson on September 13, 2006, 10:43 am
In category: Albany,Electoral Politics,Gotham City,Health | Comments Off on Spitzer�s Victory

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Suozzi vs. Spitzer
July 26th, 2006

The day after what will probably be the only televised debate between Democratic gubernatorial candidates Eliot Spitzer and Tom Suozzi the consensus among bloggers and others seems to be �good, Tom, but not good enough.�

�No knockout blows were landed,� said Empire Zone, echoing what has been the cliche of the day. Or as Elizabeth Benjamin put it in Capitol Confidential, �The post-debate consensus seems to be that Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi performed well last night – but�not well�enough to make a serious dent in AG Eliot Spitzer and change the course of this race.�

But there were, the Politicker notes, �genuine and not-insignificant differences on substance between the candidates on a number of issues, including – to name three more or less at random — medical marijuana, the amount of state money for city public schools and the next leader of the MTA.�

Following the debate, Suozzi picked up on the school funding issue. In a statement, the campaign said Suozzi was the �only candidate� (out of two) who "offered specific and credible numbers and plans for settling the [Campaign for Fiscal Equity] decision and fairly funding New York City's schools, while Spitzer �made up a CFE number on the fly.�

Probably not surprisingly, it was the marijuana issue that caught Wonkette's attention . Responding to Spitzer�s answer that he was against the use of medical marijuana but had smoked pot himself, the blog commented, �He�ll smoke it, but he won�t let you smoke it if you have tumors. What the hell next? Is he going to start insider trading?�

Empire Zone noted that the two men also had a differing approach to the blackout in Queens. Suozzi, it said, become �only the second politician, as far as we can tell, who is not already prepared to send Con Ed�s chairman, Kevin Burke, to the gallows.

But Gothamist may have summed it up best: �The Democratic primary is on September 12. Spitzer is leading Suozzi, 78 percent to 9 percent, but it doesn't hurt to know about both candidates.�

By Gail Robinson on July 26, 2006, 10:20 am
In category: Albany,Electoral Politics,Gotham City | 1 Comment »

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Spitzer's Speech
May 31st, 2006

Eliot Spitzer�s acceptance speech at the Democratic state convention showed �why he's the man to beat in New York's 2006 gubernatorial sweepstakes,� says an editorial in today�s Daily News. The paper likes his attacks on Albany and promises for change, hailing the attorney general for getting "squarely in the faces of the pols and lobbyists gathered in Buffalo, vowing to end the tax-and-spend mentality, the pay-to-play culture, the lack of competitive elections and the hiring of political cronies for top state jobs. �

Hearing the same speech, the Post came away less impressed. Sure, the paper says, he �pushed all the right buttons.� But it�s skeptical of his attacks on Albany. �When [Spitzer] talks of the 12 years of �gridlock,� he neglects to mention that he himself has been in the middle of the mess for eight of those years,� the editorial said. �For Spitzer to pretend he's an outsider is, well . . . a bit disingenuous.�

By Gail Robinson on May 31, 2006, 7:35 am
In category: Albany,Electoral Politics,Gotham City | Comments Off on Spitzer's Speech

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Spitzer Urges 'No' Vote
October 19th, 2005

New Yorkers should vote against Proposition 1, the measure on the November ballot that would change the state budget process, Attorney General Eliot Spitzer writes in today's Post. The changes, he says, "would worsen the already dysfunctional state budget process by eliminating important controls on spending and ensuring that the budget will be late every year." Spitzer goes on to condemn aspects of the proposal that would shift power away from the governor and to the legislature. He says "The Citizens Budget Commission and virtually every other independent fiscal watchdog recognizes that this is a recipe for disaster." Perhaps, but cynics might note that, as a leading contender for governor next year, Spitzer would be unlikely to want to give up power before he even takes office.

By Gail Robinson on October 19, 2005, 8:25 am
In category: Electoral Politics,Public Finance | 1 Comment »

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Is NY ethics commission leaking?
May 15th, 2012

State Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos is questioning whether information about an ethics investigation into a top member of his party was leaked illegally.

The�Albany Times Union reported earlier today that the Joint Commission on Public Ethics is investigating accusations against Tom Libous,�the second-highest ranking member of the state Senate.

Skelos, a Republican, said the information was not supposed to be public. "Whoever from JCOPE is leaking this is committing a crime. They're committing a crime," he�said. He said that any allegations against Libous were "garbage."

JCOPE's predecessor, the Commission on Public Ethics, was wracked with internal leaks — especially during the Troopergate investigation. JCOPE was designed to address the failings of the CPI and faced controversy regarding the impartiality of a number of appointees.

"Obviously, there is a letter that goes out that is required by law. Look who sent the initial letter, the mayor of Binghamton, D, Democrat, who was looking to run against Tom Libous. If this is a political stunt, that's all it is," Skelos said.

Calls to JCOPE requesting information about the process of notifying parties of an investigation have not yet been returned.

Technically, the public is not supposed to know whether JCOPE has decided to follow up on a complaint until the ethics commission makes its findings public.

â€Å"It’s not supposed to be made public. It’s a misdemeanor,” Skelos told reporters. â€Å"So whoever from JCOPE is leaking this is committing a crime. They’re committing a crime.”JCOPE's predecessor, the Commission on Public Integrity, had major problems with leaks during Troopergate. The loyalty of the JCOPE commissioners to the interests of the people who appointed them has been a concern since the commission was unveiled.

According to the Times Union, the investigation into Libous is based on a complaint by Binghamton Mayor Matt Ryan, a Democrat. Ryan asked JCOPE to look into statements made by Attorney Anthony Magone that Libous offered to help Mangone's business in exchange for giving his son a job, the newspaper reported. Mangone made the statements during a federal trial. Libous' son was hired by the firm. Ryan made his accusation and formal complaint public by sending off the complaint in front of reporters.

By David King on May 15, 2012, 5:13 pm
In category: Albany,Eye on Albany,Gotham City,Governing | 1 Comment »

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New York Scores D on National State Integrity Investigation
March 19th, 2012

A report by the Center for Public Integrity that studied the laws and corruption risks of all 50 states gave New York a score of D. The just released scorecards and accompanying stories rate both the laws and how they are implemented. New York ranked 36 amongst all states on the corruption risk. The Center for Public Integrity hopes to use the reports to work with states to enact reform. Full disclosure: I am the New York reporter for the project.

WNYC ran a story on the investigation this morning and Cuomo spokesman Matt Wing told them that the report does not take into account reforms made under Gov. Andrew Cuomo. This assertion is not completely true as�my story focuses on the Joint Commission on Public Ethics, how the agency appears to be stacked with political cronies and how the creation of the agency has echoes of Gov. Eliot Spitzer's failed attempt to reform the state's ethics organization.

Please take a look at the report and let us know what you think. The site provides a handy tool to send the report to your representative. Isn't that a heckuva thing?

By David King on March 19, 2012, 8:01 am
In category: Albany,Eye on Albany | 1 Comment »

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Citizens Union Continues to Back Cuomo on Redistricting *Update*
February 24th, 2012

Former State Attorney General and Citizens Union President Robert Abrams made the argument in a press conference today that Gov. Andrew Cuomo should use his veto threat as leverage to get the legislature to agree to a constitutional amendment to reform the state's redistricting process. Gotham Gazette is published by Citizens Union Foundation the sister organization of Citizens Union.

"We need permanent reform, instead of repeating the predictable cycle of outrage that only ends with the poisonous partisan redistricting system still intact," said Abram in a statement. "Even if this year's lines are vetoed, we face an uncertain outcome in the courts. At best, we may win the redistricting battle but will lose the war because the courts will not change the redistricting process for the future. That's why it's essential we obtain permanent change to redistricting now through an amendment to our state constitution."

Citizens Union released a letter to Cuomo yesterday asking him to use his veto threat to get a constitutional amendment.� Critics, including former Gov. Eliot Spitzer, say that future legislatures could wiggle their way out of any agreement on an amendment because it must be passed by two successive legislatures.

City and State reported this morning that Spitzer called on Cuomo to actually veto the lines during at an appearance at Columbia University. �The pretense that we�ll pass a constitutional amendment to require it or pass a law that will change it � the law can be repealed and the amendment won't go through," Spitzer reportedly said. Read the rest of this entry »

By David King on February 24, 2012, 12:53 pm
In category: Albany,Eye on Albany | 5 Comments »

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Cuomo Gets His Pick on JCOPE
February 2nd, 2012

Inspector General Ellen Biben has been tapped by JCOPE to serve as its executive director. As reported by Liz Benjamin at State of Politics, and Jacob Gershman at the Wall Street Journal, the Cuomo administration has been pushing hard to have Biben named to the position. It is unclear whether she will step down from her position as IG to take the gig but she has accepted it. While Biben is a respected prosecutor, her ties to Cuomo are thick and there is a growing concern among legislators that Cuomo will effectively have control of JCOPE, just as Gov. Eliot Spitzer did over the CPI during Troopergate.

Benjamin writes: "The selection of Biben raises questions about the ability of JCOPE to be independent. The commission may find itself in the position of investigating the governor � its predecessor, the Public Integrity Commission, had to probe both Gov. Eliot Spitzer (for Troopergate), and Gov. David Paterson (for the Yankees ticket scandal and the David Johnson domestic violence mess) � and also has, for the first time, the power to investigate legislators."

Good government groups The League of Women voters and Citizens Union have endorsed Biben. Citizens Union, which is the sister organization of the Citizens Union Foundation that publishes Gotham Gazette, has been very supportive of most of Cuomo's moves regarding ethics and the tangled push for redistricting reform. Here is their statement:

"Citizens Union commends the appointment of New York State's Inspector General Ellen N. Biben as Executive Director of the New York State Joint Commission on Public Ethics (JCOPE), the new state ethics body having joint jurisdiction over both the legislative and the executive branches. Ms. Biben is an experienced prosecutor who, prior to becoming Inspector General, served in positions that have prepared her well to assume this post. She has the requisite experience and needed integrity to take on the enormous challenge of serving as this new ethics body's first executive director. The task before her is especially important because of the need for this agency to succeed as an impartial panel charged with oversight and enforcement of our state's new ethics law and the pressing need to restore the public's faith in our government and elected officials."

By David King on February 2, 2012, 3:32 pm
In category: Albany,Eye on Albany | 3 Comments »

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Cuomo Taps Foye For Port Authority
October 19th, 2011

The Cuomo Administration has announced a major reorganization plan for the Port Authority and announced the nomination of Patrick J. Foye to head the authority. The reorganization would fold the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation and Moynihan Station Development Corporation into the agency. Here is the full release from Cuomo's office:

"Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that he has recommended Patrick J. Foye to serve as Executive Director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) and will nominate James Rubin and Rossana Rosado to the Port Authority Board. Additionally, the Governor is calling for the board to approve the consolidation of the Moynihan Station Development Corporation and Lower Manhattan Development Corporations operations into the Authority. There is no fiscal impact to the Port Authority as a result of these changes.

Mr. Foye's recommendation is subject to the approval of the PANYNJ Board. Current Executive Director Christopher Ward will remain in his position until the end of October and then serve as an advisor to the Port Authority for a transitional period through the end of the year.

"The Port Authority must meet its potential as a major economic engine that plans for the region and attracts business on an international scale," Governor Cuomo said. "We must also improve its operations and maximize the value out of every dollar spent so that it is financially responsible and respects the tax and toll payers."

Pat Foye said "I am honored to be recommended for Executive Director of the Port Authority. Under Governor Cuomo's leadership, we have begun to re-energize New York's economy and pave the way for job growth in the state. I thank Governor Cuomo for this opportunity and look forward to working closely with him and the Board of Directors at the Port Authority on maintaining and improving the New York metropolitan region's vital transportation, infrastructure and economic development assets".

Governor Cuomo also announced the reorganization of the operations of the Moynihan Station Development Corporation and the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation into the Port Authority.

"Too many different agencies doing the same or closely related work makes little sense," Governor Cuomo said. "The Port Authority is best situated to oversee the development at Moynihan Station and the orderly wind down of the LMDC and these changes will consolidate responsibility within the Authority."

There is no fiscal impact to the Port Authority from these changes. David Emil will become the Deputy Executive Director of the PANYNJ.

Governor Cuomo also intends to nominate Rossana Rosado and James Rubin to the Board of Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and Mr. Rubin's appointment as Senior Advisor for International Competiveness at the Empire State Development Corporation.

"With decades of work in government, finance and the media, James Rubin is a true national leader in international economic affairs," Governor Cuomo said. "He will bring a knowledgeable and experienced voice to designing a program that enhances New York's role as the gateway for global commerce, and a center for the international business community."

"Rossana Rosado has served the people of New York, and particularly our Latino communities, with a dedication and vision," Governor Cuomo said. "Her 13 years of experience as Publisher and Chief Executive Officer of El Diaro La Prensa have highlighted her ability to communicate effectively with all New Yorkers. These skills will serve the Port Authority well as it continues to improve the lives of New Yorkers and our neighbors."

James Rubin said, "The Port Authority can and should serve as an engine of international trade for the New York region. The state needs a renewed effort to grow jobs and increase global investment in New York and that will be my project."

Rossana Rosado said "I am thrilled by the opportunity Governor Cuomo has given me to serve our communities in this new role. The Port Authority can have a positive impact in the lives of our residents, and it will be my pleasure to further the significant benefits that it provides, both now and in the future."

Mr. Foye is currently the Governor's Deputy Secretary of Economic Development, a role in which he manages the state's initiatives for economic recovery, investment, and job creation, and oversees the Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC). Previously, Mr. Foye was Deputy County Executive for Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano. Mr. Foye has also served as a board member of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), representing Nassau County. Mr. Foye was one of only two MTA board members who in 2010 voted against fare increases- the third in three years. Prior to working for Nassau County, Mr. Foye was the downstate chief of ESDC for former Governor Eliot Spitzer as well as Vice Chair of the Long Island Power Authority. Mr. Foye was a partner at Skadden Arps and practiced law in New York, Brussels, Budapest, and Moscow and was a senior member of the management team of a S&P 500 REIT for six years. Mr. Foye also served as President and CEO of the United Way of Long Island for three years.

Mr. Rubin is currently President of the Atlantic Partnership. From 2008 to 2011, Mr. Rubin served as Executive Editor of Bloomberg View, the opinion section of Bloomberg News, and adjunct professor of international affairs at Columbia University's School of International and Public Affairs. Mr. Rubin served under President Clinton as Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs and Chief Spokesman for the State Department from 1997 to May 2000. He was also a top policy adviser to Secretary of State Madeleine K. Albright and acted as a special negotiator during the Kosovo war to secure the demobilization of the Kosovo Liberation Army. Mr. Rubin was also a Visiting Professor of International Relations at the London School of Economics from 2001-2004; a partner in the Brunswick Group � a financial advisory firm � from 2001-2004; and in 2002 and 2003, the host of the PBS series Wide Angle, a primetime, weekly international affairs program.

Ms. Rosado has over twenty five years in the New York media industry. Since 1999 she has served as the Publisher and Chief Executive Officer of El Diario La Prensa – the nation's oldest Spanish-language newspaper. She is also the first woman to serve in this position. Prior to joining El Diario in 1995 as Editor-in-Chief, Ms. Rosado was the Vice President for Public Affairs at the Health & Hospitals Corporation for the City of New York and continued to serve there under both the Dinkins and Giuliani administrations. She was also chosen to assist the transition teams for the Bloomberg and Spitzer transitions. From 1988 to 1995, Ms. Rosado was a public affairs programming producer at WPIX, where she became sole producer of daily program "Best Talk in Town." In 1992, Ms. Rosado won an Emmy for her public service campaign "Care for Kids." Ms. Rosado first joined El Diario in 1983 as a City Hall Reporter upon graduating from Pace University with a degree in Journalism. She is currently a member of the Pace University Board of Trustees.

Kathryn Wilde, President and CEO of Partnership for New York City said, "Governor Cuomo's choice of Pat, James and Rossana, demonstrates his administration's commitment to improving New York's infrastructure and economic development. Having worked with Pat on a number of projects, I have had the opportunity to witness the experience and knowledge he brings to the table. I am confident that these appointments will help lead the Port Authority into a new era of fiscal responsibility and efficiency. This group's management skills are exactly what we need to put New York on the path to economic recovery."

Gary LaBarbera, President of the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York said "On behalf of the affiliated unions of the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York and the 100,000 working men and women we represent, we commend Governor Cuomo for his appointment of Pat Foye to serve as executive director of The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. We and others in the business community have worked with Pat and are confident that he will bring competent and practical management to The Port Authority's vital role in maintaining and expanding our regional transportation assets and completing the rebuilding of the World Trade Center site. We look forward to continuing to work with Pat to keep critical projects on track and assure that public resources are invested to maximize economic growth and job creation."

Robert Yaro, President of Regional Plan Association said, "I commend Governor Cuomo on nominating Pat to the Port Authority. He will bring public and private sector experience to the Port Authority, increasing its efficiency and productivity. An agency as complex as the Authority requires experienced managers who will balance the needs of the organization with the fiscal situation in New York. Pat and his team have the necessary credentials to ensure that the Port Authority will become a driving force in New York's economic development."

Steve Spinola, President of the Real Estate Board of New York said, "The Governor has made it clear that creating jobs is his top priority. The Port Authority plays an essential role in New York's economic development and infrastructure, and Governor Cuomo is making sure that it will be able to produce the best results for the people of this state. Pat Foye and the rest of the team are excellent additions to the Authority's team. Pat's extensive management experience and keen knowledge of New York's fiscal make him especially suited for transforming the Port Authority into an economic engine."

Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos said, "Today's nomination of Pat Foye to lead the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey comes at a critical time in New York's history. There are many important projects throughout the region that can be advanced through strong leadership, and Senate Republicans stand ready to work with Governor Cuomo's team to promote regional economic development throughout New York. Pat Foye has worked for county executives and Governors, and has decades of public and private sector experience. I wish him great success in this new role."

Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver said, "The Port Authority is an integral part of the redevelopment of downtown, and I look forward to working with Pat Foye as we continue the progress we have made in rebuilding my lower Manhattan community. Pat has a strong economic development record and I know we will work well together to complete the redevelopment of the World Trade Center site."

By David King on October 19, 2011, 3:02 pm
In category: Gotham City | 1 Comment »

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No Clear Sailing for Cuomo
July 14th, 2011

Vicky Plestis filed this post.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo should feel comfortable, but not too comfortable a panel of experts on a panel at Baruch College agreed yesterday. While the 2011 legislative session, exceptionally productive by Albany standards, was lauded as "historic," John Cahill, a former secretary to Gov. George Pataki, warned, "Power changes, interests change over time."

The panel identified the Marriage Equality Act as Cuomo's bigest success. "He cemented his own personal legacy � really in six months," said Cahill. Other achievements for Cuomo included an on-time budget agreement, a cap on proprty taxes and an ethics reform bill — all on the governor's agenda.

But Cuomo's success, according to the panel, is larger than the sum of these individual achievements.

"We've had a historic last couple of months because we have had a governor who's been able to bring leaders together," said Charles O'Byrne, a former secretary to Gov. David Paterson. "I think it presages a really important cultural shift, which brings us back to a way where government works."

Cuomo, who is fiscally conservative, has been able to negotiate with a Republican dominated senate, in particular Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos. Republicans, said Abe Lackman, a former advisor to Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno, are "totally delighted with their relationship with Gov. Cuomo. � For the first time in years they actually can have someone listen to them."

But Lackman cautioned that whether this productivity and cooperation will continue is "an open question." Historically, from Hugh Carey in 1975 to David Paterson in 2008, a promising first few months has not guaranteed much in New York.
Read the rest of this entry »

By Gail Robinson on July 14, 2011, 4:00 pm
In category: Gotham City | Comments Off on No Clear Sailing for Cuomo

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Greens Want Cuomo to Act on Ethics Before Budget
December 10th, 2010

Howie Hawkins, who ran on the Green Party for governor this year, is calling on Gov.-elect Andrew Cuomo to get to work on ethics reform before he tends to the state budget. The release from Hawkins said that he wants Cuomo to act on ethics reform "before he releases his budget at the end of January." A number of advocates, including former Mayor Ed Koch, told� Gotham Gazette they think Cuomo must act on ethics reform this year but said they wanted him to make sure he got the right package before sending it to the legislature.

Blair Horner of NYPIRG said that former Gov. Eliot Spitzer rushed to get ethics reform through, "Look what happened with that," said Horner, "It was a mess."

"We need public campaign financing to end the pay-to-play culture that dominates the State Capitol as witnessed by the ongoing scandals with the state comptroller's office and pension funds," said Hawkins. "Now is the time to finally stop the sale of lawmakers to the highest bidder. And while we strongly support an independent Nonpartisan Redistricting Commission to end the partisan gerrymandering of legislative districts, we want that commission charged with drawing up multi-member districts to implement�proportional representation, which is the electoral system in almost every democracy on this planet."

The Green Party is feeling reinvigorated after reclaiming a ballot line thanks to the Green candidates Hawkins and Gloria Mattera receiving more than 50,00 votes in the general election. Here is the release from Hawkins:

Read the rest of this entry »

By David King on December 10, 2010, 2:26 pm
In category: Albany,Eye on Albany | Comments Off on Greens Want Cuomo to Act on Ethics Before Budget

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Times Union Endorses Schneiderman
September 5th, 2010

The Albany Times Union has endorsed Sen. Eric Schneiderman for attorney general. A number of other candidates were hoping that an endorsement by the paper would help establish them as the "upstate candidate" but Schneiderman has added the paper to his long list of recent endorsements that include The New York Times, The Amsterdam News, El Diario, The Nation and Rev. Al Sharpton.

Here is a snippet from the endorsement:

"New Yorkers might be understandably wary of drawing their next attorney general from the state Senate, a body that has symbolized dysfunction. But Mr. Schneiderman has long distinguished himself as a cut far above the rest in that chamber. Whether he was in the minority or the majority, he has been an eloquent, progressive voice, speaking out for reform, sensible gun control, marriage equality and equal protection for all New Yorkers."

The endorsement notes that Assemblymember Richard Brodsky has a strong reformer buy says he "grates on even his allies." It describes Kathleen Rice as having done "some good work," on local government corruption but questions her independence from Cuomo and her experience. It cites Eric Dinallo's time in the attorney general's office under Spitzer but questions his record as Insurance Superintendent. The endorsement says that Sean Coffey could be called the "most independent" but worries about his political contributions that seem to have lead to business for his firm.

The endorsement could come as a surprise to some as Schneiderman recently no-showed a debate in Albany hosted by public radio station WAMC. He was slammed by the other four candidates and Alan Chartock, the host of the debate, for not appearing.  But Schneiderman did host a forum on gun violence in Albany in the last few weeks.

Schneiderman has raised the most money during this period but Nassau County District Attorney has the most cash on hand heading into the Sept. 14 Democratic Primary.

It has been said that Schneiderman is relying heavily on votes from minorities in the city but the Times Union endorsement should solidify him as a force upstate.

By David King on September 5, 2010, 1:30 pm
In category: Albany,Eye on Albany | 3 Comments »

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Wall Street's Vote
September 3rd, 2010

As the candidates for attorney general struggle to carve out identities for themselves, Eric Dinallo may have found his. The Financial Times is reporting (registration required) that the former state insurance regulator is emerging as the candidate of Wall Street.

The paper analyzed his campaign donations and found Dinallo had far outpaced other candidates in money from Wall Street, bringing in $109,000, compared to the $65,000 financial companies gave Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice.

The paper also found that eight of Dinallo's 10 top donors work in finance, including Jim Chanos, who gave $50,000 himself and $16,500 through his hedge fund.

The irony is that Dinallo worked former Wall Street nemesis Eliot Spitzer when he was attorney general. But, Blair Horner of New York Public Interest Research Group, told the Times that Dinallo may have tuned that to his advantage, going back to contacts he made in his earlier job to "shake the money tree."

For his part, Dinallo told the paper that his Wall Street supporters know that, while he can be "tough on people who've cheated, who've had conflicts of interest … ultimately I am fair."

Dinallo also has worked in finance — at Morgan Stanley and Willis Group. And he won the endorsement of Crain's. In the editorial the paper praised Dinallo for having "a profound understanding of financial services, which he is eminently prepared to police — without the ego and the mean streak that made Mr. Spitzer the industry's enemy" and chided two of his opponents, Assemblymember Richard Brodsky and State Sen. Eric Schneiderman for having priorities "not aligned with the business community."

By Gail Robinson on September 3, 2010, 5:48 pm
In category: Gotham City | 1 Comment »

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Schneiderman's Surge?
August 24th, 2010

Sen. Eric Schneiderman was in Albany last night to take part in a discussion on gun violence. Schneiderman discussed a number of social justice issues with the crowd that gathered at the main branch of the Albany Public Library. Schneiderman was not his normal hyperactive self. He seemed a bit tired–ready for a Red Bull.

But Schneiderman's campaign for Attorney General received a gigantic shot in the arm on Friday when the New York Times endorsed him.

"People who I haven't spoken to in the last six months found my number again,"� Schneiderman joked last night, before noting that he was proud of the endorsement and felt it would be followed by a lot more support.

Today the Citizens Union (whose sister organization publishes Gotham Gazette) endorsed Schneiderman, as did the United Federation of Teachers.

Here are the releases from Citizens Union:

CITIZENS UNION
BACKS STATE SENATOR ERIC SCHNEIDERMAN
IN DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY FOR ATTORNEY GENERAL

Long-time Advocacy for Reform and Independent Political Experience Make Schneiderman the Best Choice in a Talented Pool of Candidates

Citizens Union today announced its support for Eric Schneiderman by "preferring" him over the four other strong and appealing candidates in the September 14th Democratic party primary for the Office of New York State Attorney General. Schneiderman, a state senator representing parts of Washington Heights and Riverdale in Manhattan and the Bronx, is an independent reform leader in state government who has the most suitable experience and presents the most compelling vision for how he would serve as attorney general.

"Eric Schneiderman has been a consistent and independent force for change in state government, regardless of whether he was in the minority or majority party in the State Senate. A champion for a more transparent and accountable government that treats all New Yorkers with dignity and respect, Senator Schneiderman has not just talked about reform these past few years, but forcefully – and at times successfully – challenged the status quo, even when there were political risks," said Citizens Union Executive Director Dick Dadey. "Schneiderman exercises independence, is politically experienced, and possesses integrity. His strong command of the issues and ability to seize opportunities in seeking change make him the most qualified of the five Democrats running for attorney general," concluded Dadey.

Citizens Union is impressed with Schneiderman's experience as a state legislator in which he has built coalitions and navigated the legislative process. That experience will help him effectively exercise the authority of the office of Attorney General to further advance a needed agenda of change and reform in Albany. He was the first among the candidates to raise with Citizens Union the importance of pushing the current governor to grant original jurisdiction to the attorney general to investigate and prosecute political corruption cases, a prerequisite for creating a better ethical climate in Albany.

Citizens Union views favorably Schneidermans plans to place a public integrity officer in each regional office of the attorney general to root out local wrongdoing, which seemed the most workable of other proposals suggested. His proposals to more aggressively use the False Claims Act, which Schneiderman strengthened in the legislature this past session, and engage whistleblowers to hold those accountable who defraud state or local governments also held appeal for Citizens Union. Schneiderman intends to push many reforms Citizens Union advocated for in the legislature through the attorney general's bully pulpit and the office's ability to introduce program bills, including public financing of campaigns and giving the attorney general the ability to permanently enforce election and campaign finance law.

"Whether challenging legislative leaders to achieve the most significant reforms to empower rank-and-file legislators or bringing together members from both sides of the aisle to ensure all senators exercise ethical conduct that sets a high standard, Eric Schneiderman has been one of those who has led the way in battling the dysfunction that plagues Albany," said Peter Sherwin, Chair of Citizens Union's Board of Directors. "He possesses the commitment and conviction to fight public corruption and continue advocating for reform on a larger stage and with the greater authority that comes with the Office of Attorney General."

The preference of Citizens Union for Schneiderman in the primary was decided by a lengthy evaluation, full discussion and vote of the Board of Directors following interviews of all candidates by a team comprised of board members and members of Citizens Union's Local Candidates Committee. The evaluation included a thorough review of a broad ranging questionnaire completed by the candidates, and an assessment taken after all five participated in the candidates debate held by Citizens Union last month.

John Horan, Chair of the Citizens Union Local Candidates Committee said, "Citizens Union was impressed with all the candidates in the race, each of whom brought their own unique skills and strengths. The committee felt that any one of them would serve the state well, and the challenge became choosing the candidate whose combination of skills and experience would best fit the office and the serve the people of New York. We believe we do that in supporting Schneiderman."

The evaluation committee was especially stirred by Assemblyman Richard Brodsky's creative and innovative vision for the office, and his ability to foresee unique ways in which to leverage the power of the office to maximize change. Brodsky's record of enacting reform of seemingly impenetrable institutions like the state's many byzantine public authorities and tackling complex processes like energy pricing made Citizens Union consider supporting his candidacy very seriously. He is one of the strongest candidates among an exceptional group, but Citizens Union feels his experience in building coalitions and advocating for our broader reform agenda is exceeded by Senator Eric Schneiderman. Should he not win election as attorney general, Albany will be all the poorer for not having Brodsky in the legislature, where he is a natural talent and effective reformer.

Eric Dinallo showed impressive knowledge of the inner workings of the Office of Attorney General, having creatively used the Martin Act while serving as Assistant Attorney General under Eliot Spitzer, that would serve him and the state well. His efforts to obtain original jurisdiction in public corruption cases for the office from the governor has been second to none. With a track record in leading an agency as Superintendent of Insurance during a time of great financial tumult when a smart mind and steady hand were needed, Dinallo also possesses significant management skills that would also serve him well should he win.

Sean Coffey is a newcomer to running for office, but nonetheless is a dynamic and focused candidate. Citizens Union is pleased with the way he has embraced the reform agenda and prioritized it in his campaign, and by extension made it more visible in the public debate. His service to the country, work as a trial lawyer, and grasp of the issues suggest he could be a strong attorney general. Citizens Union's decision not to prefer Coffey was due in part to our concern over the disconnect created by him and his firm's involvement in making legal political contributions to comptroller candidates across the country and in New York – some of whom later awarded state contracts to his firm – and his pledge to reduce the influence of money in politics in Albany.

Kathleen Rice, the district attorney for Nassau County who has implemented innovative programs, impressed the committee with her ability to connect her experience and accomplishments to how she would be a successful attorney general. Rice also gave a very thorough account of what the Office of Attorney General would look like under her leadership. Citizens Union saw firsthand how her clarity and sense of purpose has helped her become a successful prosecutor. Citizens Union, however, found it difficult as a good government group to back her given her absence from voting throughout much of her adult life. Her answer to why she did not vote for eighteen years did not dissuade us of our belief that a candidate for statewide office should be setting a strong example for consistent civic responsibility. We also felt there are other candidates in the race who expressed a stronger commitment to seek and obtain from the governor the power to handle public corruption.

Citizens Union's preference is only for the Democratic Party primary election. It will re-examine the race when the Democratic nominee is selected by the voters and faces off against Dan Donovan, District Attorney for Staten Island and Republican nominee for attorney general, making a final decision regarding whom to endorse in the General Election in mid-October.

Here is the release from Schneiderman's office regarding the endorsement by the UFT:

UNITED FEDERATION OF TEACHERS ENDORSES
ERIC SCHNEIDERMAN FOR ATTORNEY GENERAL

Demonstrating Growing Momentum, 200,000-Strong Union Becomes the Latest In A Slew of Recent Endorsements for Eric Schneiderman

NEW YORK CITY – In the wake of endorsements from the New York Times and Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown, the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) today endorsed Eric Schneiderman for Attorney General, demonstrating the growing momentum propelling the campaign. With 200,000 members, the UFT becomes the latest in a growing list of over 100 progressive leaders, labor unions and grassroots organizations that are supporting Schneiderman for Attorney General.

"We need an Attorney General who will be an advocate for equality and justice for all New Yorkers," said UFT President Michael Mulgrew. "Eric Schneiderman is that advocate. Eric has spent his entire career fighting for everyday New Yorkers, showing an unparalleled commitment to working people, progressive justice and public education. He's the right choice for teachers, and the right choice for New York."

"I am honored to be endorsed by New York's teachers," said Eric Schneiderman. "I will have no greater priority as Attorney General than to fight every single day for equality and justice for all New Yorkers. Over the past few weeks, I've been proud of the diverse coalition of progressive leaders and advocates that has come forward to support my campaign. Together, we will build a safer, stronger and more prosperous state."

The UFT represents approximately 200,000 people, 87,000 teachers and 19,000 classroom paraprofessionals, along with school secretaries, attendance teachers, guidance counselors, psychologists, social workers, education evaluators, nurses, laboratory technicians, adult education teachers, 28,000 family day care providers and 53,000 retired members.

With widespread support from a broad and diverse coalition of progressive New Yorkers and the unanimous endorsement of the state's largest labor union, 1199/SEIU United Healthcare East, the largest private-sector union, 32BJ, NARAL Pro-Choice New York and Citizen Action, momentum is growing for Schneiderman's campaign to be the state's next Attorney General.

To date, Schneiderman has earned the endorsement of over 100 progressive leaders, including U.S. Representatives Yvette Clarke, Jerry Nadler and Jose Serrano and a host of prominent community activists, and grassroots organizations.

By David King on August 24, 2010, 3:47 pm
In category: Albany,Eye on Albany | 1 Comment »

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Good Week for Brodsky
April 2nd, 2010

Assemblyman Richard Brodsky said he thinks he is having a landmark week in his campaign for attorney general.� Earlier today he received the endorsement of the Westchester Democratic Committee and later today he is expected to receive endorsements from a number of major police unions.

"I think it was a good week for our campaign due to do some endorsements we received and missteps by other campaigns," said Brodsky. " I think we showed political strength and substantive strength."

The campaign for the attorney general heated up earlier this week when Sen. Eric Schneiderman's office announced legislation for immigrant service fraud reform. Brodksy's ally Sen. Ruben Diaz subsequently issued a statement accusing Scheniderman of plagiarizing the bill and pointing out that Brodsky had introduced the legislation weeks earlier.

"I believe it was just a case of an overzealous staffer," said Brodsky. Sen. Kevin Parker defended Schneiderman yesterday saying he and Schneiderman had been working on the legislation for over a year. Regardless Brodsky says he hopes Schneiderman will support his legislation and wants to see legislation pass by the end of session.

But Brodsky made no bones about being in campaign mode.� He said his campaign made the decision long ago not to wait on the governor's race to sort itself out before fully campaigning.

"We are in a unique situation where it is April and there is no announced Democratic candidate for governor," said Brodsky.

There are a number of names possibly vying for the Democratic nomination for attorney general. Besides Brodsky and Schneiderman they include: Eric Dinallo, Denise O'Donnell and Sean Coffey.

Brodsky said he wants to reform the office and has a different strategy than his opponents.

"Under Spitzer the office went from consumer advocacy to� "Sheriff of Wall Street." We need to reform it again to make it the base for reform efforts in Albany."

By David King on April 2, 2010, 1:22 pm
In category: Albany,Eye on Albany | 1 Comment »

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Lazio's Top Ten
March 19th, 2010

Rick Lazio issued a top ten list this morning blasting his new opponent for the Republican gubernatorial nomination for being, "A liberal Democrat with a liberal record." Lazio has his own problems as a growing number of Republicans see him as being incapable of stoking excitement and in turn being unable to raise enough money to challenge the expected Democratic nominee.

Here is Lazio's take on former Democrat Steve Levy.

1. He voted for the largest tax increase in state history — $3.2 billion in 2003.

2. He voted for massive SEIU union giveaway — $1 billion in 2002.

3. He twice voted to make Shelly Silver the Speaker of the Assembly.

4. In January 2010, he said Andrew Cuomo would make a good Governor.

5. He called the Obama Stimulus package "manna from heaven" that would "save lives".

6. He's taken nearly $400,000 from labor unions.

7. He endorsed and supported Al Gore.

8. He endorsed and supported John Kerry.

9. He endorsed and supported Eliot Spitzer.

10. He has said that he will not support Republicans running for office this year.

By David King on March 19, 2010, 1:05 pm
In category: Albany | Comments Off on Lazio's Top Ten

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Weekly Web Wrap
March 5th, 2010

Paterson and the Future of Black Politics
(Newsweek)
Photo Essay of the State's Adult Homes
(Mother Jones)
Spitzer's Mission Impossible
(Time)
The Signage in Penn Station is Terrible
(Slate)
But it has Free WiFi
(NYCwireless)
Accessibility Concerns in the Building Code
(Metropolis)
Land Use and the City Charter Revision Commission
(Pratt Center)
Is Cablevision Destroying Newsday?
(Long Island Press via NYConvergence)
A Social Scientist Discusses Avenue D
(Urban Omnibus)
CBS Agrees to Run Pro-Marijuana Ad in Times Square
(Change.org)
Councilmember on Outer Borough Parking Policy After Storms
(Councilmember Vincent Gentile's blog)
An Analysis of the City's Tech Ecosystem
(innonate)
MTA Service Cuts Mapped
(Regional Plan Association)
Saving Student MetroCards by Trimming School Bus Costs
(Streetsblog)
Cartoonist's Take on Tumult in the Governor's Seat
(Matt Davies)
Minimizing Harm from School Aid Cuts
(Citizens Budget Commission)

By Mike Muller on March 5, 2010, 8:11 pm
In category: Gotham City | Comments Off on Weekly Web Wrap

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State Police in the Spotlight, Again
February 25th, 2010

Denise O'Donnell, deputy secretary for public safety, resigned earlier today citing State Police involvement in the handling of a domestic incident involving Gov. David Paterson's aide David Johnson.

In a statement O'Donnell said that she was told of the incident involving Johnson earlier this year and assured by State Police Superintendent Harry Corbitt that State Police were not involved in the incident. Corbitt's comments in the Times story seem to contradict that.

"My immediate concern was what role the State Police would take in the investigation and I was assured by Superintendent Corbitt that the State Police were not involved," said O'Donnell in a statement. "It was only last night when I learned from press reports the contrary details, including the involvement of the State Police."

Since then Corbitt has issued a statement saying that O'Donnell's description of his statements was correct but that she drew "incorrect" assumptions about them.

A number of legislators say they are dismayed by Corbitt's statements in the Times. "I was disappointed to hear the superintendent suggest this is the normal response," said Sen. Neil Breslin.

Read the rest of this entry »

By David King on February 25, 2010, 5:55 pm
In category: Albany,Eye on Albany | Comments Off on State Police in the Spotlight, Again

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Source: https://www.gothamgazette.com/blogs/wonkster/page/2/?s=spitz

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