Updated 01/02/2009 11:25 AM
Paterson Does Not Want Caretaker Senator
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Governor David Paterson says he does not plan to appoint a caretaker to replace Senator Hillary Clinton and wants fellow lawmakers to stop trying to influence his decision.
The governor was asked about his choice for New York's next senator before he and his wife opened the executive mansion to visitors.
Paterson says his search is still ongoing, but that he is not interested in appointing someone who would not run in a special election in 2010.
"It would cause New York to lose seniority. And in the United States Senate, the most effective senators are the ones that have seniority. So I'm hoping the person I select wins the primary," he said.
Paterson dodged questions about naming Caroline Kennedy to Clinton's seat, but said her stature had not been diminished by her recent interviews.
When asked if he had a New Year's resolution, the governor quipped it was to try to not talk about the senate until he makes the appointment.