Paterson Says It’s Time To Act On Senate Selection
Governor Paterson indicated today he’s about ready to decide who he is going to select to replace Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, saying a decision could come any day now.
Paterson suggested that he hasn’t decided because he’s been focusing on picking a new chief judge, which he did today, but indicated that the decision is near.
The governor said he doesn’t want his announcement to interfere with Barack Obama’s inauguration Tuesday, but explained that he doesn’t feel the need to wait until Clinton officially resigns, which her aides said won’t happen until after she’s confirmed. And that won’t happen until at least Tuesday.
“Now I see the duty to act,” he told reporters.
And Paterson dismissed today’s Quinnipiac Poll showing Caroline Kennedy’s support waning, saying the polls are merely popularity contests.
“As the person that makes that selection, I don’t think I should allow those outside influences to affect me in making that choice,” he said. “I want to pick the person who I think over time will prove that they were the best selection.”
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IF THIS GUY CHOOSES CAROLINE KENNEDY HE WILL NOT GET
RE ELECTED.IF THE REPUBLICANS PUT UP THE RIGHT CANDIDATE
NOW he “sees the duty to act?” He’s been adamant about not appointing anyone until Clinton is confirmed and effectively resigns. Something to be examined as to why he suddenly “sees the duty to act.” We will shortly know the answer to THAT question.
Well, you didn’t have too long to wait, ed. Hillary just got approved by the Foreign Relations Committee, and will be giving a farewell speech in the Senate later today.
You know Walt, I almost do hope he appoints Caroline. Though I have little confidence in the Kennedy clan and their often skewered opinions, she gives the impression that she is, at least honest, which will be refreshing. Unfortunately, honesty in Washington is often a useless and self-defeating commodity, ala Jimmy C. As for Cuomo, I am in mind of the Peter Principle. Despite a questionable career up to now, he seems to have found a job that suits his talents and sensibilities. Of course, he won’t stay there, and will end up (as Doctor Peter posits) in a position one level above his competence or usefulness, and settle- in. If not appointed, he will certainly challenge Paterson in a primary.
In a recent interview, Caroline Kennedy cited
as prime senatorial qualifications her experience as a writer, mother, and charitable fundraiser. A bit of a stretch. Her advantages are obvious: name recognition and acess to campaign funding. So, if she’s appointed, the selection will be based on political expediency, not what’s best for the New York electorate. We’ll soon know.