Democratic gubernatorial candidate Andrew Cuomo picked up the endorsement of NARAL Pro-Choice New York Wednesday.

As Cuomo accepted the endorsement at City Hall, he suggested that his rival, if elected, may affect New Yorkers' access to abortion.

"Part of what we have to do in this campaign is say, 'I know you take it for granted, but you better not," said Cuomo. "Look at this ticket that is being run, and you have an extremist, out of touch platform, and New Yorkers have to know about it."

"In the past, what you've seen is that even Republicans in New York held very moderate views," said Kelli Conlin of NARAL Pro-Choice New York. "As you know, in the Legislature in Albany, NARAL has been able to work across the aisle with Republicans and Democrats to pass important legislation. But under Carl Paladino's leadership, that will no longer be the case, which is why we're supporting Andrew Cuomo so strongly in this election."

The pro-choice group has released a critical television ad against the Republican candidate, Carl Paladino, that highlights his opposition to abortion in all cases, including incest and rape, except where the life of the mother is endangered.

It is believed to be the first commercial devoted to a single issue in the 2010 election season.

In a statement, Paladino's campaign said, "Attacking Carl's personal religious views on abortion is an attempt to distract voters from the corruption of Albany. Carl has never said changing New York's existing abortion laws are on his agenda for reform.... He is focused on jobs, taxes, spending and the economy."

The issue of abortion is also showing up in the contest for state Attorney General and at least one U.S. Senate seat. In all cases, Republicans are being called out of touch with New York.

"What it is is it's a red herring, where my opponent is trying to distract from the real issues -- corruption in Albany. I have made a commitment that I will uphold all the laws," said Staten Island District Attorney and State Comptroller Candidate Dan Donovan.

Meanwhile, political analysts say Paladino's unexpected surge in the polls has left Cuomo trying to rally Democratic and independent women.

"And polls suggest it's an important issue for young men, too, interestingly, but yes clearly this is an important issue and it could be an issue that would get people out to the polls because again it could be an issue that people feel strongly about," said Eric Gander of Baruch College.