Friday, January 23, 2009

Paterson to Choose Bluedog Democrat Kirsten Gillibrand for Hillary's Seat


Unless he's faking people out, and he might do that, Governor Paterson is reportedly set to announce that Hillary Clinton's senate seat will go to Congresswoman Kirsten Gillibrand, who is said to be something of "a Democratic hero for capturing a Republican-majority district in 2006."

Gillibrand is also a Bluedog Democrat, not exactly what I was hoping for. While Caroline Kennedy was a liberal dream, even to the remarkable point of being 'out' about her pro gay marriage views, Gillibrand is more like a Republican dream. She is against gay marriage. She voted against the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell. And she voted against giving same-sex partners of both "citizens and permanent residents the same immigration benefits of married couples." The NRA loves her. Etcetera.

The irony is that Paterson may be swinging from the nation's most prominent Democratic family to one with strong Republican ties. Gillibrand has described her own voting record as "one of the most conservative in the state."

I'm glad he chose a woman, but he should have chosen Carolyn Maloney or Caroline Kennedy. With Gillibrand, there will definitely be a Democratic primary, and the Dems will have to fight like hell to hold onto Gillibrand's congressional seat.

Update: Rep. McCarthy is upset about the pro semiautomatic position of Paterson's pick. Says she will boycott Paterson's presser - and will challenge Gillibrand in the 2010 primary.

DAVE PICKS GILLIBRAND AS LIBERAL DEMS HOWL
With Kennedy Out, N.R.A. Becomes Issue
Is Gillibrand Too Republican to Replace Clinton?

Posted by egalia at