By Eileen Buckley
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wbfo/local-wbfo-842349.mp3
Buffalo, NY – Governor David Paterson says he will not be leaving New York until the current turmoil in the State Senate is settled. Since there is no lieutenant-governor, the Senate's president pro-tem serves as acting governor. And right now, two men are claiming that post -- Senate Democratic leader Malcolm Smith and Senator Pedro Espada, Junior, one of the engineers of yesterday's Republican takeover. So for now, Paterson is saying the best thing for him to do is "stay put."
Former Erie County Democratic Chairman Steven Pigeon is in line for a top job in the State Senate if the new ruling coalition assumes control. Pigeon is a key advisor to billionaire businessman Tom Golisano, who is playing a behind-the-scenes role in the leadership change. Pigeon tells the Buffalo News that he expects to "play a role."
Senate Democrats are so far refusing to hand over the keys to the chamber. The new leaders plan to hold their Senate session somewhere else if they can't get the keys.
Local leaders are reacting to the shift in power. WBFO'S Eileen Buckley has reaction from the Mayor, County Executive and UB's president.
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