State Of The State: Initial Reactions

Reactions to Governor Eliot Spitzer's first "State of the State" address ([found here]) have already begun to pour in.

"Governor Eliot Spitzer today laid out a bold and urgent agenda for our state. From sweeping government reform initiatives to plans for improving schools, revitalizing our Upstate economy, fighting Medicaid fraud through a state False Claims Act, the Governor put forth an ambitious and progressive vision. I am honored to accept his proposal to work with Upstate law enforcement to protect New York's children from gun and gang violence. As Attorney General, I am looking forward to working with Governor Spitzer to fulfill the mission of restoring the public trust in government that the people of New York demand and deserve," said State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo.

"Reducing property taxes paid by working families is a good first step towards a much-needed re-allocation of tax distribution in New York," said Dan Cantor, executive director of Working Families Party. "The next and most important step is to make sure the wealthiest New Yorkers are really paying their fair share of taxes. The State should repeal the upper-income tax cuts passed in the 'Rip Van Winkle' era of Gov. Pataki."

"Really good teachers establish a tone on that first day. The governor did that. It's good classroom management to start strong, with clear goals and responsibilities," said Richard C. Iannuzzi, president of the New York State United Teachers.

More to come...