Gov. David Paterson is focusing his campaign on “the people first.” Yet I’m not sure if Paterson is in tune with what’s necessary to put the people first.

He couldn’t possibly think that a “three men in a room” budget is putting people first, or could he? He couldn’t possibly think that higher fees and taxes are putting people first, or could he? He couldn’t possibly think that a lack of jobs and a disappearing population are putting people first, or could he?

Paterson has stated that there is a $3.2 billion deficit, and that we must all sacrifice to reduce it. Well, I’d like to remind him that we did not cause this deficit. The politicians took our money, spent it recklessly and now expect us to fix the problem. I’d like to ask Paterson if the politicians are going to sacrifice. After all, they created the problem. Are they going to start paying taxes on their pensions? Are they going to take a reduction in their salaries? Are they going to give up their slush funds? Are they going to pay for a good portion of their lifetime pensions and health benefits?

What’s good for the goose, is good for the gander. If the governor would like our vote, he truly needs to put people first.

Ellie Corcoran

Clarence