Mondello Questions Spitzer's Decision to Nominate Hemmerdinger as MTA Chair

ALBANY, NY (06/19/2007)(readMedia)-- Republican State Chairman Joseph N. Mondello today questioned Governor Spitzer’s decision to nominate real estate mogul and campaign supporter Dale Hemmerdinger to chair the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and called for a thorough review of Mr. Hemmerdinger’s credentials and the process by which he was chosen for nomination.

“Last week, Dale Hemmerdinger opened his home to host a big money fundraiser for Governor Spitzer. This week, the Governor is nominating him to head the MTA when his mass transit experience appears to be limited to suggesting fee increases on hard working New Yorkers,” said Chairman Mondello. “Governor Spitzer appears to have instituted a brazen ‘pay to play’ culture in Albany that is disappointing and shocking to the people of New York State.”

Chairman Mondello called for a thorough and extensive review of Mr. Hemmerdinger’s qualifications for MTA Chairman. Mr. Hemmerdinger’s involvement with mass transit seems limited to his call for MTA fee hikes as Chair of the Citizens’ Budget Commission. Chairman Mondello also called for an investigation to determine if Mr. Hemmerdinger’s campaign support was linked to his proposed appointment.

“The MTA is a large, complex organization that needs an experienced professional, not simply a political supporter who fills the Governor’s pockets with campaign cash,” said Chairman Mondello. “Hard working New Yorkers who rely on mass transit do not need a wealthy campaign financier whose prime object is to dip into their wallets with increased fees any more than they need a Governor who seemingly trades critical government positions for campaign funds.”

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