This story about Gov. Paterson's delcaration of a mere $150 in charitable contributions on his latest tax filing could serve as a classroom hypothetical for a discussion of defensive political spinning.
Though the Paterson p.r. crew seems to be silent on the matter, maybe he and the missus weren't being remiss at all but rather gave during the year but bothered only to deduct for the old clothing? In other words, just because he declared only $150 doesn't mean he didn't contriubute more. Of course this would be a risky position to take if it isn't true. And how about the taxpayer funds he's sent along to community groups over the years as a legislator? Maybe that doesn't count since they weren't his bucks.
Also, it's not like the accidental governor has shied away from talking about personal mattters before, but hey. The man's an adult, and these are his choices.
Dan Janison