After claiming a record victory in last night's election, Governor-Elect Eliot Spitzer and Gov. George Pataki appeared together today and said their staffs are working together to ensure a smooth transition for leadership of the state.
"I have absolute confidence that the state of New York will be in very good hands for the next four years," Pataki said at a noon press conference where he also spoke favorably of Spitzer's record as attorney general.
Though both men were jovial in welcoming Spitzer to the club of New York governor's, Spitzer said, "The issues ahead are significant and serious." He said he will turn to Pataki for guidance because he trusts Pataki's judgment.
Errol A. Cockfield Jr.
"I will seek his wisdom and counsel as we move forward," said Spitzer, who must immediately begin crafting a budget and tackle education funding, tax relief and the possible closure of hospitals and nursing homes.
Tomorrow, Spitzer, who defeated upstate Republican John Faso by an overwhelming margin, said he will hold a press event to discuss more details about the people who will be part of his transition team.
Both men also discussed the ethics charges that state Comptroller-Elect Alan Hevesi is facing. Spitzer said until he is inaugurated he will leave decisions related to Hevesi's case to Pataki.
The governor said he has asked the state Senate to draft procedures for a possible trial against Hevesi, after an independent counsel the governor appointed warned that removing Hevesi from office would be premature because there is no established process in state law.
Despite the legal problems that have swirled around him after he arranged for a member of his staff to chauffeur his wife, Hevesi fended off a challenge from Republican J. Christopher Callaghan, the former Saratoga County Treasurer.
Spitzer and Pataki's appearance came as state Democratic Chairman Herman "Denny" said he will stop down on Dec. 31 to make way for a Spitzer-picked successor. Farrell said during an interview this morning that he was pleased with the Democratic sweep of statewide offices last night and ready to hand over the reins.
"It can't be sweeter than this," he said.
Comments (3)
Tom DiNapoli for chairman?
Tom DiNapoli for the State Comptroller's job when Hevesi resigns.
How about promoting the Party's #2 to Chair? A former county chair who helped engineer the Gillibrand win in the 20th and has many ties to state and national leaders - Denise King.