Paterson Names Gillibrand To Clinton Senate Seat
"I believe I have found the best candidate to become the next United States Senator from New York," Paterson said, lauding Gillibrand as a dynamic and articulate lawmaker.
In accepting the appointment, Gillibrand lauded the work of her predecessor Clinton. She noted that she is not well known to many New Yorkers and vowed to work hard for everyone in the state over the next two years.
The announcement ends a period of wild speculation and recriminations involving Caroline Kennedy, who announced her interest in the seat but ultimately pulled out, and resulted in embarrassment and criticism for both Kennedy and Paterson.
Gillibrand, who has earned the backing of the National Rifle Association, is a centrist Democrat whose positions have angered some liberal Democrats. Word that she would be selected for the seat prompted an announcement from Long Island Rep. and gun control activist Carolyn McCarthy that she will run against Gillibrand in the 2010 Democratic primary.
Paterson was reportedly drawn to Gillibrand for her ability to make "bold political moves." Also working in Gillibrand's favor is the fact that she is a woman, hails from upstate, and is a strong fundraiser who should be able to raise the money she needs for her reelection campaign.