N.Y. governor says no decision yet on Senate seat

[January 20, 2009]  ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) -- New York Gov. David Paterson insisted Monday he still hasn't decided whom he will appoint to the Senate seat expected to soon be vacated by Hillary Rodham Clinton despite news reports to the contrary.

The Democrat, who is in Washington for the inauguration, said he hopes to announce a decision by the weekend.

He said he has narrowed the field of as many as 20 hopefuls, including Caroline Kennedy.

"I'm not leaning in one direction, but I think I'm focusing on a few candidates now who, in my mind, would be finalists," Paterson said.

The governor said he hasn't yet evaluated the lengthy questionnaires from candidates that ask for background information including personal finances.

The selection process, now in its second month, has frustrated Paterson and supporters of the candidates.

Paterson commented on what he said were amazing -- and he hinted false -- reports carried daily in news stories, several of which said he was expected to choose Kennedy.

"I can say I don't know who the next senator for New York is right now. I would swear to it," he said during a news conference.

From the beginning of the vetting in early December, Paterson said he planned a "confidential" process without traditional campaigning. He said he wouldn't announce a choice until after Clinton is confirmed secretary of state, likely to happen soon after President-elect Barack Obama's inauguration.

Paterson made an argument for appointing a woman, noting that there are far more men in the Senate because men have more opportunities.

He also has made party unity part of his consideration, saying his appointee will have to run for election next year.

Some of the most well-known candidates -- Kennedy, Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi and U.S. Reps. Carolyn Maloney and Steve Israel -- have pledged not to force a Democratic primary in 2010 against Paterson's appointee.

Paterson also has sent out mixed signals, sometimes hinting that he favored Kennedy but also noting her shortcomings.

As interest in the selection grew, Kennedy faced criticism that she lacked legislative experience -- a fact even Paterson noted.

Kennedy last week trailed state Attorney General Andrew Cuomo in statewide polls even though Cuomo refuses to say if he's interested in the appointment by Paterson.

Still, Kennedy, who is a lawyer, author and education advocate in New York City, has much to offer Paterson and the state, including immediate star power to help bring more federal funds to address the state's fiscal crisis.

[Associated Press; By MICHAEL GORMLEY]

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