Is there any reason to expect Patterson to win the primary in 2010?

[Kurt_and_Hunter]

He's kind of an accidental governor to begin with.

Any NYers have a sense of whether he would even survive a primary challenge?

[Maven]

1. Ehh.

I give it 70/30. I think the alternative would have to be really compelling (in terms of star power) to push him out.

[Historic NY]

2. wait until the budget fight is done............

I've never seen a politician so indecisive he lobs out budget blasts then retreats. NY's finances are in a shambles the Democrats own both the assembly & the Senate and they are going to lose them because they are a bunch of boobs..gang of three, Paterson. & the new Sen. leader. They will cave to the Repukes. How many weeks does it take to pick a replacement? Wishey washy politics.

[HeraldSquare212]

3. He announced a replacement exactly when he said he would, after Clinton was confirmed.

[TomClash]

4. It depends on whether Andrew runs

If he runs, it's a serious fight.

Paterson has serious and unprecedented budget problems that he is trying to deal with - those problems are not his fault. But the Senate Appointment Saga did not help him. He didn't need his aides trashing Caroline anonymously. I think Kirsten's appointment is another attempt by Paterson to govern from the center, rather than the left or center-left, to discourage a potential Bloomberg challenge.

Kirsten is no Palin; she's nice, but pretty smart and tough. She can raise money - lots of it. That said, she will definitely face a serious primary challenge.