For Immediate Release

In effort to break Senate stalemate, Paterson names Ravitch lieutenant governor

Jul 9, 2009 12:50 PM

On July 8, Governor David Paterson appointed former Metropolitan Transportation Authority chairman Richard Ravitch lieutenant governor in an effort to break the stalemate in the state Senate that has dragged on for more than a month. The governor said he expects the unprecedented move to face a legal challenge, but he added that something had to be done to resolve the stalemate in order for the government to act on crucial legislative matters.

UFT President Randi Weingarten responded with the following statement:

The UFT strongly supports Governor Paterson’s efforts to resolve the gridlock in the state Senate by appointing Richard Ravitch lieutenant governor. Mr. Ravitch has a distinguished record as a dedicated public servant working as head of the MTA and in other capacities, and we applaud Governor Paterson for acting decisively to get the Senate to end its stalemate and address the needs and issues of New Yorkers who look to Albany for leadership. Despite any legal challenges this appointment might face, Governor Paterson should be commended for considering every option to make the government work for the people of New York.