Senate Selection Process a Circus, Results Even Worse

ALBANY, NY (01/23/2009)(readMedia)-- Governor Paterson's secretive, closed-door process of selecting our next United States Senator is an affront to all New Yorkers and has resulted in his personal pick of an unqualified, political novice to represent New York at a critical time.

The process was a circus much like the Senate replacement by Governor Blagojevich in Illinois. Sadly, the results will likely be equally disappointing, as Kirsten Gillibrand's inexperience and lack of results in her limited time in government will be quickly evident in a lack of results for New York.

A number of highly qualified candidates have already announced their intent to challenge her and serve New York in the U.S. Senate. I am confident that when the voters finally have their say, they will make a wiser choice than Governor Paterson.

As it relates to the 20^th Congressional District, several talented, dedicated and qualified individuals have already thrown their hats in the ring. We have taken the initial steps to create an open and fair process to determine who will be the best candidate. I am confident that by doing things the right way and selecting the best candidate to serve the needs of the people, the voters will choose two highly qualified Republicans to serve as elected officials in the United States Senate and House of Representatives.

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