Governor David Paterson Answers Questions from WAMC Listeners

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Alan Chartock and Joe Donahue interviewing David Paterson

ALBANY, NY (11/24/2010)(readMedia)-- New York State Governor David Paterson made a live appearance this morning joining Alan Chartock and Joe Donahue on WAMC Northeast Public Radio's "Roundtable" program. He answered listeners' questions about the recession, hydrofraking, the budget gap and more.

"Once again, David Paterson proved by his appearance on The Roundtable that he is not afraid to answer questions in a direct and forthright manner. He didn't avoid any questions and from sitting next to him, I can only tell you that he is a unique politician," says Alan Chartock, President and CEO of WAMC.

Paterson admitted wrestling with difficult decisions as he was forced to make cuts during his reign as Governor - he explained he was frustrated dealing with state commissioners. "... even people who are delegated to make those tough decisions, they don't want to do it. They want to play to the audience. You know, 'the governor's making me do it, but this is wrong.' And it's fine that they say that, but they have no solution."

Chartock asked if the Governor was alluding to fired DEC Commissioner Pete Grannis, let go after a memo critical of cuts to the agency leaked. "Among others," replied Paterson, "there was nothing wrong with Commissioner Grannis' memo. It was accurate… whether it was leaked or whichever way it came out it was accurate, and we still had to do it." Paterson went on to explain that the layoffs of some 900 state workers could have been avoided had the public employee unions been more cooperative.

Listeners who missed the interview can hear it at: www.publicbroadcasting.net/wamc/news.newsmain?action=article&ARTICLE_ID=1729578

The Roundtable blends news, arts, culture, and live music. Whether reporting the day's news, interviewing local and national authors, or chatting with fascinating people from around the corner and around the world, The Roundtable has something for everyone as it covers issues ranging from politics, arts, culture, history, the environment and everything in between.

Member-supported WAMC Northeast Public Radio broadcasts news, informational and cultural programming to listeners in portions of seven northeastern states. WAMC is an award winning producer of regionally based programming and an affiliate of National Public Radio, American Public Media, and Public Radio International. www.wamc.org

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