“Today, the Governor presented his budget deficit proposal that was created by three New York City democrats. Governor Paterson, Senate Majority Leader Malcom Smith and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver were the only individuals represented in these proposal discussions. Not only did this decision by Governor Paterson cut off an entire political party, it cut off the majority of New York state from being represented, thus, resulting in budget cuts primarily in Upstate and Western New York and higher taxes for all New Yorkers.

“The Governor’s budget deficit proposal is a gimmick that will not only increase New York families’ premiums on health care by one third, but will also steal the increased revenue from SUNY and CUNY tuition that should be utilized by these institutions and misappropriate money from the New York Power Authority Fund that could be used to create jobs. I am highly disappointed in the Governor’s decision to place a heavier burden on New York families that have already tightened their belts significantly.

“It is never a good time to raise taxes, and this statement rings especially true in times of recession. I call on the Governor to abandon his partisan politics that hurt New Yorkers, especially those of Upstate and Western New York, and to join together with all representatives to create a solution to New York’s budget that will alleviate the burden on all individuals regardless of political affiliation or residential location.”