| After hearing this news, there will be one question that comes to mind: Will there even be a Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Governor David Paterson's appointee, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand?
New York State Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith announced today that he will endorse Gillibrand for U.S. Senate.
"Throughout her career, Kirsten Gillibrand has exhibited the kind of leadership that has yielded results for the people of New York," Majority Leader Smith said. "Senator Gillibrand understands that the hard-working men and women of this state deserve tax relief, quality and affordable health care and every chance to receive the best educational opportunities for their children."
Majority Leader Smith continued, "Her agenda to advance economic development opportunities and revitalize our communities is the kind of vision we need in Washington fighting for us. I have no doubt she will continue to deliver for the people of this state and I look forward to partnering with her, as well as Senator Schumer, Governor Paterson and other legislative leaders as we work to get New York and the nation back on track."
"I am honored to have Majority Leader Smith's endorsement, and I'm grateful for his leadership. Malcolm and I share a strong commitment to turning this economy around and creating well paying jobs all across New York State," said Senator Gillibrand. "Malcolm has also been an effective leader in guiding Democratic victories across the state and I look forward to working together with him to grow our Democratic majority in the State Senate."
This is a big endorsement for many reasons. It puts one of the highest elected Democrats in the state right in Gillibrand's corner and puts one of the highest ranking New York City Democrats in her corner at the same time.
The news of the endorsement comes on the same day that a front page post on Daily Kos makes it clear that Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney could still run, even though Rep. Steve Israel chose not to.
Having Smith endorse Gillibrand this early is big. It puts a strong New York City Democrat in Gillibrand's corner and gives Gillibrand early backing from a key figure in New York politics. |
