Back in 1989, disgusted with Ed Koch’s divisive administration, I sought an alternative.
Michael Kharfen, later to be Director of David Dinkins’ Community Assistance Unit (and my boss therein) told me, “If you don’t vote for David Dinkins, there will be racial discord, riots in the street and the days to day operations of City government in the hands of people like Norman Steisel.”
Damned if he wasn’t correct—I didn’t vote for David Dinkins, and all those things did happen.
The man I voted for had brought the MTA into the 20th Century and just last year endeavored to bring it into the 21st; his name was and is Richard Ravitch.
Today, in a stunning act of audacity, David Paterson named him as Lieutenant Governor.
Bravo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I understand the Governor’s power to take this action will be subject to a ruling by the Courts, and I’ve no opinion as to the merits of the arguments on either side.
But, as to the merits of the appointment, I am ecstatic.
This is the singular best thing David Paterson has done since his assumption of the Governorship. Subject to the appointment’s OK by the Courts, there is only one thing Paterson can do to top it, and if he does it, if and when the Courts have given sanction to the Ravitch appointment, he will have the gratitude of each and every New Yorker, especially the Democrats.
What can the Governor possibly do to top this excellent appointment?
Resign.