Newly sworn governor of New York, David Patterson, gave a strong message of hope and opportunity in his first speech as the Chief executive for New York state. The speech, which can be downloaded on the WNYC web site, comes after the whirlwind demise and subsequent resignation of former Gov. Elliot Spitzer.
In Patterson's opening remarks, he praised the community values of his home district in Harlem. He closed by cheering the cause for opportunity to all in the state that he has now been entrusted to lead.
Patterson is the first African American Governor of New York, and the forth in U.S. history. He is also the first blind governor in the United states.
Needless to say, he is a solid listener, and I'm optimistic of the work he'll do, with the New York State legislature, who has been stalled in controversy since shortly after Spitzer's inauguration.
He hallmarked the need for community support among state leaders by having them join him in the state assembly and renew their oath of office. The symbolism reminds me of the Easter Vigil, when christians renew their baptism. It's a fitting seen for the many Christians throughout New York during this week that leads up to Easter. A large percentage of conservative New Yorkers make up this demographic. So, it will be interesting to see how Patterson succeeds in reaching across the isle once his administration gears up following Passover and Easter break.
Comments