This statement just came in from Senator Malcolm Smith, whose path to the leadership of the state Senate now looks elusive at best. The senators he's referring to are, of course, Pedro Espada, Ruben Diaz, and Carl Kruger. The civil rights he is referring to are gay rights and specifically gay marriage, something vigorously opposed by Diaz.
"Today I am announcing that the Democratic Members of the Senate have elected to cease negotiations on reorganization matters with all three Senators as discussed both in private and in the press. We are suspending negotiations, effective immediately, because to do so otherwise would reduce our moral standing and the long-term Senate Democratic commitment to reform and to change. We believe that ultimately, we must do what is right for the people of the State of New York. Furthermore, real reform cannot and should not ever include limiting the civil rights of any New Yorkers. Those issues must be part of the legislative process.
The members of this Conference have come a long way to consider the demands placed on the table. But frankly, we would rather wait two more years to take charge of the Senate than to simply serve the interests of the few. New York State cannot afford the type of self-serving politics being proposed and I will not be the leader to sacrifice what is right for New York for a quick political solution."
just hope that the honest Mr. Smith can finally overcome the scumbags who are opposing him.
ReplyDeleteBy possibly sacrificing his chance at being majority leader, Smith emerges as a leader.
ReplyDeleteThese three jerks are truly disgusting. Let's hope that the voters have long memories and end their political careers on the next election.
ReplyDeleteSo is this the equivilent of calling the political bluff? If these 3 now decide to caucus with the Republicans, what are their chances are getting re-elected? They may decide to join the Democrats anyway, right?
ReplyDeleteBoogieDowner is so proud that Mr. Smith is doing the right thing. It would have been an outrageous abortion of the political discourse if this gang of 3 were able to strong arm positions by threats. If any one of these clowns gets re-elected their constituents should be ashamed. And shame on state Senator-elect Espada for cloaking himself in Latino Orgullo. His battle was about himself and not about under-represented Latinos. Do you think Mr. Espada's bit would fly in Mamaroneck?
ReplyDeleteRe: Greg Jost's question, the Three Amigos could could remain Democrats but just withhold their votes when it comes time to vote for majority leader, thus by default allowing the Republicans to maintain power. Or they could vote outright for a Republican leader. This would make them pariahs in the party but they could continue to run as Democrats, while making deals with the Republicans. Carl Kruger, one of the Three Amigos, was after all given a committee chairmanship by the Republicans because of his closeness with them.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand, playing footsie with the Republicans would virtually assure each a primary challenge in 2010.
It will be interesting to see the end game here. Who says all the political excitement has to be in Chicago?