Conservatives Congratulate Gov. Paterson

While Calling for Spending Restraints

Ft. Hamilton Station, NY – State Conservative Party Chairman, Michael R. Long, sent the following letter to Governor Paterson on Friday, congratulating him and encouraging him to resist the calls to increase state spending from big spending special interest groups seeking to expand the role of government in New York State.

 

March 14, 2008
 

Governor David A. Paterson
Executive Chamber
State Capitol
Albany, New York 12224


Dear Governor Paterson:

Congratulations on becoming New York State’s fifty-fifth Governor. Your work is certainly cut out for you as you assume the duties of Governor under the stressful circumstances that have propelled you to the responsibilities that lay ahead. I am certain that the circumstances that you have already overcome in your life’s journey will give you the inner courage to face the challenges that await you.

Your reputation is one of listening to everyone and I have never been known to be silent when it comes to what is best for the citizens of our state. We both understand that difficult financial times are here – right now, today – and measures must be taken immediately to prevent the exodus of more hard working, tax-paying families.

We both know that New York State is the highest taxed state in the Nation and we are facing a budget shortfall of almost $5 billion. Now is not the time to raise taxes, but it certainly is the time to cut spending. With just two weeks before the new budget should be adopted, every special interest group will be knocking on your chamber door, looking for increased spending and hoping to capitalize on your desire to heal the turmoil by trying to satisfy everyone.

I am urging you to do what is right for all New Yorkers and that is to use your bully pulpit to end the out of control spending and cut taxes to stimulate economic growth.

You are in a unique position with a small window of opportunity to do what is best for the citizens of our state. I urge you to do so and by doing so; New Yorkers will have their faith restored in their elected officials. You can and must cut spending and reduce taxes, it is the only way New York will recover and be competitive to stimulate economic growth.

Sincerely,


Michael R. Long
State Chairman
 

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